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Just two months ago that the young forward was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused as his coach scolded him over not reading a penetrating pass. Back then, with the team endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained whether his performances were a sign or the reason of Villa'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 manager's outburst was entirely decidedly more positive. When the in-form star swept in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim Villa's lead, the boss discarded his coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. Villa continued to a tenth straight victory , despite not winning their opening six games, now sit only three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Hopefuls?

This is an exceptionally difficult query to answer. The historical record, the traditional standing of Villa, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they've rarely been wholly dominant in many games, despite the fact the wins have accumulated.

As per Opta, in only two games has the team had an xG notably superior than the other team. For a club which has just won ten consecutive victories, they look weirdly vulnerable – but right now the margins are going in their favour.

The Reliant Strategy

The prevailing tactic seems to be to engage in a shootout with the opposition and wait for their talisman to save the day with two clinical strikes. This was the case at Leeds, it transpired in London, and it happened when facing United.

Rogers' first goal came from a brilliant finish, curled just inside the post from the corner of the box. For his second acted as a somewhat messier replica of the opener capitalizing on a pass from Watkins.

“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.”

Is It Sustainable?

Logic says not. In the recent win, the opposition managed more shots and more shots on target. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those matches.

A reversion to average could be the most significant challenge Villa will encounter over the coming weeks. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot keep on drilling the football past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

Reasons for Optimism

Maybe there exists an alternative path whereby, rather than luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures might still find their top level.

• The main striker could start adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent may rediscover the performer he showed during his peak.
• The defensive duo will eventually come back from the treatment room, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

This could contain the seeds of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on one man.

Savoring the Moment

But then, this is a surprise. Few believed the team would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt earlier this season, few could imagine the midfielder by the end of the year would be spearheading a championship pursuit while looking like an essential Three Lions star.

This winning streak is to be savoured for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As the match-winner positioned himself before the home supporters after the match orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.