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It was two months ago that the young forward stood on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed as the Villa manager berated him for failing to anticipate a through-ball. Back then, as Villa went six without a win, it wasn't clear if his performances were a sign or a cause for the team's broader struggles.

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

On Sunday, however, the manager's outburst proved to be far more favourable. After Rogers swept in his second strike to reclaim Villa's lead, Emery discarded his jacket, threw his arms wide and roared. The Birmingham club were on their way to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win their opening six matches, now sit just three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Hopefuls?

This is a particularly tough question to address. History, the traditional standing of Villa, argues against it. Moreover, their performances haven't been completely commanding during this run, even as the positive results have stacked up.

Per the data, on just two occasions has the team had an expected goals figure significantly higher than the opposition. For a club which has just won 10 in a row, they appear weirdly vulnerable – however at the moment the fine lines are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy looks like to trade blows with an opponent and wait for their talisman to save the day with two precise efforts. This was the case away to Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and it happened against United.

The initial strike originated from a brilliant finish, bent just inside the upright from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal acted as a slight scruffier version of the opener as he pounced on a setup by his strike partner.

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

Is It Sustainable?

Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, the opponents managed more efforts and more direct attempts. Villa have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those fixtures.

Regression to the mean may well be the most significant challenge Villa have to face in the near future. Rogers, almost certainly, will not continue to blasting the ball into the top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is a different scenario in which, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players may yet find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins might resume scoring again.
• The attacking talent might become the force he was in Germany.
• The defensive duo are due to return from injury, bolstering a sometimes shaky backline.

Maybe within that lies the potential of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on one man.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought the team would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely back in October, nobody thought the young forward now would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a vital player for the national team.

This remarkable period must be cherished for the very reason that it seems so surreal. As the hero faced the North End after the match orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These runs of form do not happen often and must be appreciated.