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Just 60 days in the past that the young forward found himself on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed as his coach admonished him for missing a penetrating pass. During that period, as the club went six without a win, the question was whether his displays were a sign or the reason of the team's broader struggles.

“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”

In the latest match, however, the manager's outburst was far more favourable. When the in-form star swept in his second strike to restore Villa's lead, Emery discarded his winter coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. Villa marched on to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning their opening six games, find themselves just three points adrift of table-toppers Arsenal.

Is This Team Serious Hopefuls?

It remains a particularly tough question to address. Past precedent, the traditional standing of Villa, suggests not. Moreover, they've rarely been completely commanding in many games, despite the fact the wins have stacked up.

Per statistical analysis, twice all season has the side registered an expected goals figure significantly higher than their opponents. For a side that have strung together ten consecutive victories, Villa look curiously susceptible – however right now the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy appears to be to engage in a shootout with rivals and then rely on their talisman to rescue them with two precise efforts. This occurred at Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and once more versus Manchester United.

His opener originated from a superb shot, bent precisely inside the post from the edge of the area. For his second acted as a slight scruffier version of the opener capitalizing on a pass from Watkins.

“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”

Is It Sustainable?

Logic says not. In the recent win, Manchester United managed a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. Villa have won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in all but one of those matches.

Regression to the mean may well be the most significant challenge they have to face in the near future. The forward, almost certainly, will not continue to drilling the ball past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists another reality where, instead of luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet return to peak condition.

• The main striker could start scoring again.
• The attacking talent could transform into the force he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs are due to come back from the treatment room, bolstering a sometimes shaky defence.

Maybe within that lies the potential for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on one man.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, nobody expected this. Few believed the team would occupy third at Christmas. And without a doubt two months ago, nobody thought the young forward now would be spearheading a title charge while looking like a crucial England player.

This winning streak is to be savoured for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As the hero stood in front of the home supporters after the match orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These runs of form do not happen often and must be appreciated.