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A mere eight weeks in the past that the Villa attacker found himself on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while the Villa manager berated him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. At that point, as the club failed to win in six, it wasn't clear if his performances were a symptom or a cause for the team's broader struggles.

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

On Sunday, however, the manager's outburst proved to be far more favourable. After Rogers swept in his brace-sealing goal to reinstate Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician tore off his coat, spread his arms and roared. The team continued to a 10th successive win , despite not winning their opening six matches, find themselves only three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is This Team Serious Hopefuls?

This is an exceptionally difficult question to answer. The historical record, the perceived status of the club, argues against it. Additionally, they have not been completely commanding during this run, despite the fact the positive results have stacked up.

Per the data, twice all season has the side had an xG notably superior than their opponents. For a team that have put together 10 in a row, they seem strangely fragile – but right now the fine lines are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy looks like to engage in a shootout with rivals and then rely on their talisman to bail them out with some precise efforts. It happened at Leeds, it transpired in London, and again against United.

The initial strike came from a brilliant finish, arced right inside the upright from a wide position. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of his first as he pounced on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

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

Is It Sustainable?

Logic says not. In the recent win, Manchester United registered a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. The team has won each of their last eight by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those fixtures.

A statistical correction might be the most significant challenge they have to face in the near future. Rogers, almost certainly, cannot keep on blasting the ball past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Could it be another reality whereby, instead of results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures could still return to peak condition.

• The main striker might resume scoring again.
• Jadon Sancho might become the force he was during his peak.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually return from injury, strengthening a sometimes shaky backline.

This could contain the seeds for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

However, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And certainly two months ago, nobody thought the young forward by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit and appearing as a vital player for the national team.

The current run should be enjoyed exactly since it feels so unlikely. As Rogers positioned himself before the home supporters at the final whistle conducting the cheers, it was clear to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.