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It was two months prior when the young forward was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused while the Villa manager berated him for missing a through-ball. Back then, with the team failed to win in six, it wasn't clear if Rogers' form were a sign 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.”

In the latest match, in contrast, the manager's outburst was entirely far more favourable. As the England international drilled in his second strike to reclaim the lead for Villa, Emery tore off his coat, spread his arms and roared. Villa continued to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, now sit just three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.

Is This Team Serious Title Contenders?

That’s a rather hard question to address. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, argues against it. Additionally, they have not been completely commanding this season, despite the fact the wins have stacked up.

Per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the team registered an xG notably superior than the other team. For a club which has put together 10 in a row, Villa appear weirdly vulnerable – however currently the margins are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy appears to be to exchange chances with rivals and wait for Rogers to rescue them with some precise efforts. This was the case away to Leeds, it occurred in London, and once more versus United.

His opener originated from a brilliant finish, curled precisely inside the upright from a wide position. The follow-up goal acted as a slightly less clean iteration of goal number one capitalizing 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?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, Manchester United had more shots and more efforts on goal. The team has won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all except one of those fixtures.

A reversion to average might be the most significant challenge Villa have to face over the coming weeks. Their key man, surely, will not continue to drilling the ball into the net's top corner week in, week out.

A Case for Belief

Perhaps there is another reality where, rather than results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward could start scoring again.
• The attacking talent could transform into the force he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• The defensive duo are set to come back from the treatment room, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable backline.

Maybe within that lies the possibility for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.

Enjoying the Ride

But then, nobody expected this. Few believed the team would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt two months ago, few could imagine the young forward now would be at the forefront of a title charge while looking like an essential England player.

This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When the hero stood in front of the home supporters when the game ended orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.