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It was 60 days in the past that the young forward stood on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while the Villa manager berated him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. At that point, as the club went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether Rogers' form were an indicator or the source for the side'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, however, the touchline reaction proved to be decidedly more positive. When the England international curled home his second to restore his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician discarded his jacket, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. Villa were on their way to ten wins in a row , having failed to win any of their first six matches, now sit just three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Hopefuls?

It remains a rather hard question to address. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, argues against it. Furthermore, their performances haven't been entirely convincing during this run, while the wins have piled up.

As per Opta, twice all season have Villa posted an xG notably superior than the other team. For a club who have strung together ten consecutive victories, the Villans seem weirdly vulnerable – but currently the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

The current approach looks like to engage in a shootout with an opponent and then rely on their star man to rescue them with a couple of clinical strikes. This occurred at Leeds, it transpired in London, and once more versus the Red Devils.

The initial strike came from an exquisite effort, bent right inside the upright from a wide position. His brace-completing goal acted as a slightly less clean iteration of his first 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.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Reason suggests otherwise. In the recent win, the opponents managed a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those matches.

A reversion to average could be the greatest opponent Villa will encounter in the near future. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot maintain drilling the football into the net's top corner forever.

Reasons for Optimism

Perhaps there is another reality where, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs may yet rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins might resume adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent could transform into the performer he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs are due to come back from the treatment room, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

Perhaps there is in that the seeds of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.

Savoring the Moment

But then, this was unforeseen. Few believed Villa would sit third at Christmas. And most definitely two months ago, nobody thought Rogers as the year closed would be at the forefront of a title charge and appearing as a crucial England player.

This winning streak is to be savoured for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. When the hero stood in front of the home supporters at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he appeared to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.