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It was two months in the past when the young forward was standing on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while his coach scolded him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. During that period, as Villa went six without a win, doubts remained if Rogers' form were a symptom or the source of the side's broader struggles.

“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”

This weekend, though, the manager's outburst proved to be much more joyous. After Rogers curled home his second to restore the lead for Villa, the boss tore off his jacket, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The team marched on to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning any of their first six fixtures, now sit a mere three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.

Is This Team Serious Hopefuls?

That’s a particularly tough proposition to resolve. The historical record, the perceived status of this institution, argues against it. Furthermore, their performances haven't been completely commanding during this run, even as the victories have piled up.

According to Opta, in only two games have Villa posted an xG more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a team who have just won ten consecutive victories, they seem weirdly vulnerable – however at the moment the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy looks like to exchange chances with an opponent and wait for Rogers to bail them out with some precise efforts. It happened away to Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and once more against the Red Devils.

The initial strike originated from a brilliant finish, curled right inside the upright from the corner of the box. For his second was essentially a slightly less clean iteration of goal number one capitalizing on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“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?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opponents managed more shots and more direct attempts. The team has won each of their last eight by just one goal. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those fixtures.

A statistical correction could be the biggest rival the club must confront over the coming weeks. Rogers, surely, will not continue to drilling his shots past despairing goalkeepers forever.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists an alternative path whereby, rather than luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players may yet find their top level.

• The centre-forward could start finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho might become the force he was in Germany.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to return from injury, strengthening a sometimes shaky defence.

Maybe within that lies the seeds of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on a single individual.

Savoring the Moment

But then, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Aston Villa would be in the top three for the holidays. And certainly back in October, nobody thought the young forward as the year closed would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title and appearing as a crucial England player.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed precisely because it seems so surreal. When the match-winner positioned himself before the North End at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.