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A mere eight weeks ago when the young forward stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed while the Villa manager berated him for missing a pass in behind. During that period, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained if Rogers' form were a symptom or the reason for the side's more general malaise.

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

In the latest match, however, the touchline reaction proved to be much more joyous. When the in-form star drilled in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician tore off his coat, opened his arms and roared. Villa marched on to a 10th successive win , despite not winning their opening six matches, now sit a mere three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.

Is This Team Legitimate Title Contenders?

It remains a rather hard question to address. The historical record, the traditional standing of Villa, suggests not. Moreover, they've rarely been completely commanding this season, even as the victories have accumulated.

Per Opta, in only two games has the team had an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a team that have just won 10 in a row, Villa look curiously susceptible – but at the moment the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy looks like to trade blows with the opposition before hoping Rogers to save the day with some crisp finishes. This occurred away to Leeds, it occurred in London, and once more when facing United.

His opener came from a superb shot, bent precisely inside the goal frame from a wide position. His brace-completing goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.

“Perhaps Rogers’ right foot is becoming like Arjen Robben’s left: just because you know he’s going to whip the ball into the top corner doesn’t mean you can stop him.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Reason suggests otherwise. In the recent win, Manchester United had more shots and more efforts on goal. The team has secured their last eight victories by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all except one of those matches.

A statistical correction may well be the biggest rival Villa will encounter in the near future. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot maintain blasting the football past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Maybe there exists an alternative path where, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players may yet find their top level.

• The main striker could start finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho could transform into the player he resembled in Germany.
• The injured centre-backs will eventually come back from the treatment room, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable defence.

This could contain the seeds for a sustained push, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on a single individual.

Savoring the Moment

However, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would sit third at Christmas. And without a doubt earlier this season, no one envisioned the midfielder now would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title while looking like a vital Three Lions star.

The current run must be cherished exactly since it appears so improbable. When the hero stood in front of the home supporters when the game ended conducting the cheers, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These runs of form do not happen often and should be relished.