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It was two months ago when the young forward found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused while Unai Emery berated him for failing to anticipate a through-ball. Back then, with the team endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear if Rogers' form were a symptom or a cause of the side's wider issues.

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

On Sunday, in contrast, the manager's outburst was far more favourable. As the in-form star swept in his second to reclaim the lead for Villa, the boss discarded his coat, spread his arms and bellowed. The team were on their way to a 10th successive win , despite not winning any of their first six fixtures, are somehow a mere three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Hopefuls?

It remains a particularly tough query to resolve. The historical record, the perceived status of this institution, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, they have not been entirely convincing this season, while the wins have accumulated.

Per the data, twice all season has the team had an xG significantly higher than their opponents. For a club that have strung together ten consecutive victories, Villa appear weirdly vulnerable – however right now the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy looks like to exchange chances with the opposition and wait for their talisman to save the day with two clinical strikes. It happened away to Leeds, it happened in London, and once more when facing the Red Devils.

His opener stemmed from an exquisite effort, curled right inside the post from a wide position. The follow-up goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of his first capitalizing on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”

Can It Last?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opponents managed a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those fixtures.

Regression to the mean could be the biggest rival the club have to face as the season progresses. Rogers, surely, cannot maintain drilling his shots past despairing goalkeepers forever.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be another reality whereby, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs could still find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins may begin to scoring again.
• The winger may rediscover the performer he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• The defensive duo are set to regain fitness, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable backline.

This could contain the possibility of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can continue to depend solely on one man.

Savoring the Moment

However, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Aston Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt back in October, few could imagine the young forward now would be leading a championship pursuit and appearing as a crucial player for the national team.

This winning streak is to be savoured precisely because it appears so improbable. As the hero positioned himself before the Villa faithful when the game ended leading the celebrations, it was clear to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. Such periods are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.