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It was 60 days in the past that the Villa attacker stood on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while Unai Emery berated him for missing a through-ball. Back then, with the team went six without a win, it wasn't clear if Rogers' form were a sign or a cause for the team's more general malaise.

“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 much more joyous. After Rogers curled home his second strike to reclaim his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician tore off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club were on their way to ten wins in a row and having failed to win any of their first six fixtures, now sit just three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Challengers?

That’s a particularly tough query to address. The historical record, the perceived status of this institution, suggests not. Additionally, they've rarely been completely commanding during this run, despite the fact the positive results have accumulated.

As per Opta, on just two occasions have Villa had an xG more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a side who have strung together 10 in a row, the Villans appear strangely fragile – however currently the tight outcomes are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic appears to be to engage in a shootout with the opposition and then rely on Rogers to bail them out with some clinical strikes. This occurred away to Leeds, it happened in London, and once more against Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal came from a superb shot, arced right inside the upright from the corner of the box. For his second was essentially a somewhat messier replica of the opener 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.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, Manchester United had more efforts and more shots on target. The team has won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in all except one of those matches.

A reversion to average might be the most significant challenge Villa have to face in the near future. Their key man, in all likelihood, will not continue to blasting the football past despairing goalkeepers forever.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists an alternative path in which, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures might still find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins could start finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho might become the performer he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs are set to come back from the treatment room, strengthening a periodically leaky defence.

Maybe within that lies the seeds for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on one man.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this was unforeseen. Few believed Aston Villa would sit third at Christmas. And certainly back in October, nobody thought the midfielder as the year closed would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a crucial England player.

This winning streak is to be savoured exactly since it feels so unlikely. As the hero faced the North End when the game ended leading the celebrations, it was clear to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These spells do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.