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It was two months in the past that the Villa attacker found himself on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed as his coach scolded him for missing a pass in behind. During that period, with the team failed to win in six, the question was whether his performances were an indicator or the source of the team's broader struggles.

“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”

In the latest match, though, the touchline reaction proved to be much more joyous. When the in-form star swept in his second to reinstate the lead for Villa, the boss tore off his jacket, threw his arms wide and bellowed. Villa continued to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win their initial half-dozen games, find themselves only three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.

Is This Team Serious Hopefuls?

This is an exceptionally difficult proposition to answer. Past precedent, the traditional standing of the club, suggests not. Moreover, they have not been completely commanding during this run, while the positive results have accumulated.

As per the data, in only two games has the side posted an expected goals figure significantly higher than the opposition. For a club who have just won ten consecutive victories, Villa look strangely fragile – but at the moment the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy appears to be to engage in a shootout with rivals and wait for their talisman to save the day with a couple of crisp finishes. This occurred against Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and once more when facing the Red Devils.

His opener originated from an exquisite effort, arced just inside the upright from a wide position. His brace-completing goal acted as a slightly less clean iteration of the opener as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.

“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Reason suggests otherwise. In the recent win, Manchester United had 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 nearly all of those fixtures.

Regression to the mean might be the most significant challenge the club will encounter as the season progresses. The forward, in all likelihood, will not continue to thrashing the football into the top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is a different scenario where, instead of luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs could still return to peak condition.

• The centre-forward might resume finding the net regularly.
• The attacking talent may rediscover the player he showed in Germany.
• The defensive duo are due to come back from the treatment room, fortifying a sometimes shaky defence.

This could contain the possibility for a sustained push, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

Yet, nobody expected this. It seemed improbable the team would be in a Champions League place in December. And certainly back in October, no one envisioned Rogers now would be leading a hunt for the title and appearing as a vital England player.

The current run should be enjoyed precisely because it seems so surreal. As the match-winner faced the Villa faithful after the match conducting the cheers, he appeared to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.