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Just two months ago that the Villa attacker was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused while the Villa manager scolded him for not reading a penetrating pass. Back then, with the team endured a six-game winless run, the question was if his performances were an indicator or the reason for the team's broader struggles.

“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”

In the latest match, in contrast, the manager's outburst was entirely far more favourable. When the England international drilled in his second to reclaim Villa's lead, Emery ripped off his coat, opened his arms and roared. The Birmingham club continued to a 10th successive win , despite not winning their opening six fixtures, are somehow just three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Is This Team Genuine Hopefuls?

That’s an exceptionally difficult proposition to address. The historical record, the perceived status of Villa, suggests not. Additionally, they have not been completely commanding this season, despite the fact the positive results have stacked up.

According to statistical analysis, on just two occasions have Villa had an xG notably superior than the other team. For a side who have strung together 10 in a row, Villa appear weirdly vulnerable – yet right now the fine lines are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

The current approach seems to be to engage in a shootout with the opposition and then rely on Rogers to save the day with a couple of crisp finishes. It happened at Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and once more when facing the Red Devils.

The initial strike stemmed from a superb shot, bent just inside the post from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of the opener as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.

“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 opposition managed more shots and more shots on target. They have won each of their last eight by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those fixtures.

Regression to the mean could be the greatest opponent Villa have to face as the season progresses. Their key man, almost certainly, will not continue to thrashing the football into the top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists an alternative path where, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players could still find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• The winger might become the performer he showed in Germany.
• The injured centre-backs are set to come back from the treatment room, strengthening a sometimes shaky backline.

Maybe within that lies the potential of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on a single individual.

Enjoying the Ride

However, nobody expected this. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would be in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely back in October, no one envisioned the midfielder by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit and appearing as a vital Three Lions star.

This winning streak should be enjoyed exactly since it feels so unlikely. When Rogers stood in front of the North End at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he seemed to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.