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A mere 60 days ago when the young forward stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed as his coach scolded him for failing to anticipate a through-ball. Back then, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained if Rogers' form were a symptom or the reason for Villa's wider issues.

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

This weekend, though, the touchline reaction was much more joyous. As the England international swept in his second to restore his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician ripped off his jacket, spread his arms and roared. Villa were on their way to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win their opening six games, find themselves a mere three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Is This Team Legitimate Challengers?

This is a rather hard proposition to resolve. Past precedent, the traditional standing of the club, argues against it. Furthermore, they have not been entirely convincing this season, despite the fact the wins have stacked up.

Per statistical analysis, in only two games has the side had an xG more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a club who have just won ten consecutive victories, Villa appear weirdly vulnerable – however right now the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic appears to be to exchange chances with rivals before hoping their star man to bail them out with some crisp finishes. This occurred away to Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and again when facing the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal originated from an exquisite effort, bent right inside the upright from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of goal number one 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.”

Is It Sustainable?

Logic says not. Against United, the opponents had more efforts and more direct attempts. Villa have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those fixtures.

A statistical correction might be the biggest rival the club have to face over the coming weeks. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot maintain drilling his shots past despairing goalkeepers forever.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be a different scenario in which, rather than results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs might still return to peak condition.

• The main striker might resume adding to his goal tally.
• The winger could transform into the performer he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
• The defensive duo are set to return from injury, strengthening a periodically leaky backline.

This could contain the possibility of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on one man.

Savoring the Moment

But then, this is a surprise. Few believed Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And certainly earlier this season, no one envisioned the young forward by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a crucial player for the national team.

This winning streak should be enjoyed exactly since it feels so unlikely. When Rogers positioned himself before the Villa faithful after the match conducting the cheers, he seemed to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These spells are rare in football and must be appreciated.