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Just 60 days in the past when the young forward stood on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed as his coach berated him for failing to anticipate a through-ball. Back then, as the club failed to win in six, doubts remained whether his performances were a sign or a cause for Villa's wider issues.

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

This weekend, however, the manager's outburst proved to be much more joyous. As the in-form star swept in his brace-sealing goal to reinstate his side's advantage, Emery discarded his coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. Villa were on their way to a 10th successive win , after failing to win their initial half-dozen games, are somehow just three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Hopefuls?

It remains an exceptionally difficult question to address. Past precedent, the traditional standing of Villa, argues against it. Moreover, they have not been wholly dominant in many games, despite the fact the wins have piled up.

Per Opta, in only two games has the side had an xG notably superior than their opponents. For a club who have put together a ten-match winning streak, Villa look curiously susceptible – however at the moment the tight outcomes are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy seems to be to exchange chances with rivals and then rely on their star man to rescue them with two precise efforts. This occurred away to Leeds, it transpired in London, and again versus the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal stemmed from a superb shot, arced precisely inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. For his second acted as a slightly less clean iteration of the opener as he seized on a pass from Watkins.

“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?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opponents managed more efforts and more direct attempts. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. The defence has been breached in all but one of those fixtures.

A reversion to average could be the most significant challenge they must confront as the season progresses. The forward, surely, will not continue to thrashing the football into the top corner indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Could it be another reality where, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures might still return to peak condition.

• The main striker may begin to scoring again.
• The winger may rediscover the player he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs are due to come back from the treatment room, bolstering a periodically leaky defence.

This could contain the potential of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on a single individual.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, nobody expected this. Nobody thought Aston Villa would be in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt two months ago, few could imagine Rogers now would be spearheading a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a vital Three Lions star.

The current run is to be savoured precisely because it appears so improbable. As the match-winner stood in front of the North End when the game ended conducting the cheers, it was clear to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.