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Just eight weeks prior that the young forward was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed as the Villa manager scolded him for failing to anticipate a through-ball. Back then, as Villa went six without a win, the question was if Rogers' form were an indicator or the reason for the side's broader struggles.

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

On Sunday, in contrast, the touchline reaction proved to be far more favourable. When Rogers drilled in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim Villa's lead, Emery ripped off his winter coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. Villa marched on to ten wins in a row and despite not winning their initial half-dozen games, now sit just three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Hopefuls?

It remains a particularly tough question to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of Villa, argues against it. Moreover, they've rarely been completely commanding this season, while the positive results have accumulated.

Per Opta, twice all season have Villa registered an xG more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a team who have just won ten consecutive victories, Villa look strangely fragile – yet at the moment the tight outcomes are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy seems to be to engage in a shootout with rivals before hoping Rogers to rescue them with a couple of precise efforts. It happened away to Leeds, it transpired in London, and again against Manchester United.

His opener came from a brilliant finish, curled just inside the upright from the corner of the box. For his second proved to be a somewhat messier replica of his first as he seized 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, Manchester United registered a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. They have won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all except one of those matches.

A reversion to average may well be the most significant challenge the club must confront over the coming weeks. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot keep on blasting the football past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists a different scenario whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players might still rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins could start scoring again.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the player he was in Germany.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to regain fitness, bolstering a sometimes shaky defence.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on a single individual.

Savoring the Moment

But then, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable the team would occupy third at Christmas. And without a doubt back in October, few could imagine the midfielder as the year closed would be leading a hunt for the title and appearing as a crucial Three Lions star.

This winning streak is to be savoured precisely because it seems so surreal. As Rogers stood in front of the Villa faithful after the match conducting the cheers, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.