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It was 60 days prior when the Villa attacker stood on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed while his coach berated him for missing a penetrating pass. During that period, with the team endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear if Rogers' form were a symptom or the source for Villa's wider issues.

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

In the latest match, though, the touchline reaction was entirely far more favourable. As the in-form star swept in his brace-sealing goal to reinstate Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician discarded his jacket, threw his arms wide and bellowed. Villa were on their way to ten wins in a row , after failing to win any of their first six games, find themselves a mere three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Hopefuls?

This is a particularly tough proposition to address. Past precedent, the traditional standing of the club, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, they have not been entirely convincing during this run, even as the wins have accumulated.

According to the data, in only two games has the side had an xG notably superior than their opponents. For a club which has just won a ten-match winning streak, Villa appear strangely fragile – but currently the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Reliant Strategy

The prevailing tactic appears to be to exchange chances with an opponent and wait for their talisman to save the day with some crisp finishes. This was the case away to Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and once more versus the Red Devils.

His opener originated from a superb shot, arced just inside the upright from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first as he pounced on a setup by his strike partner.

“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. During the latest victory, the opposition had more efforts and more direct attempts. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those fixtures.

A statistical correction could be the biggest rival Villa have to face over the coming weeks. Rogers, surely, cannot keep on drilling his shots into the top corner indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Perhaps there is a different scenario in which, instead of luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures may yet find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent may rediscover the player he resembled during his peak.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to come back from the treatment room, strengthening a periodically leaky backline.

Maybe within that lies the seeds for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on one man.

Relishing the Unlikely

But then, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Aston Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And certainly back in October, few could imagine the young forward now would be leading a title charge while looking like a vital Three Lions star.

The current run should be enjoyed exactly since it seems so surreal. As the hero faced the Villa faithful after the match orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells do not happen often and should be relished.