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It was eight weeks in the past that the Villa attacker stood on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered as Unai Emery admonished him over missing a through-ball. During that period, as Villa went six without a win, it wasn't clear if his displays were a sign or the reason of the side's broader struggles.

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

This weekend, however, the manager's outburst was much more joyous. As Rogers curled home his second strike to restore the lead for Villa, Emery ripped off his jacket, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The Birmingham club were on their way to a 10th successive win , after failing to win their initial half-dozen matches, find themselves only three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Challengers?

This is an exceptionally difficult question to resolve. Past precedent, a general sense of Villa, argues against it. Additionally, they have not been entirely convincing in many games, despite the fact the wins have piled up.

As per the data, on just two occasions have Villa had an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a team which has strung together a ten-match winning streak, they look strangely fragile – however right now the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Winning Formula

The current approach appears to be to exchange chances with rivals and wait for Rogers to rescue them with two clinical strikes. This occurred away to Leeds, it occurred in London, and it happened when facing United.

Rogers' first goal stemmed from a brilliant finish, arced just inside the post from a wide position. His brace-completing goal proved to be a slight scruffier version of his first as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.

“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, the opponents registered a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. They have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all except one of those matches.

A statistical correction might be the biggest rival they have to face in the near future. Their key man, in all likelihood, will not continue to thrashing his shots into the net's top corner indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be a different scenario where, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players may yet rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins might resume adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the player he resembled in Germany.
• The defensive duo are due to regain fitness, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

This could contain the possibility for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on a single individual.

Enjoying the Ride

However, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Aston Villa would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely back in October, few could imagine the young forward by the end of the year would be spearheading a championship pursuit while establishing himself as an essential Three Lions star.

This winning streak must be cherished exactly since it feels so unlikely. As the match-winner faced the North End when the game ended leading the celebrations, it was clear to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are rare in football and should be relished.