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It was eight weeks in the past that the young forward found himself on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed while his coach scolded him over not reading a through-ball. During that period, with the team failed to win in six, the question was whether his displays were a sign or the reason for the side's more general malaise.

“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”

On Sunday, however, the touchline reaction was far more favourable. After the England international swept in his brace-sealing goal to reinstate Villa's lead, the boss ripped off his coat, opened his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club were on their way to a tenth straight victory and having failed to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, now sit only three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Challengers?

It remains a particularly tough question to answer. Past precedent, the traditional standing of the club, indicates otherwise. Additionally, they've rarely been wholly dominant this season, even as the positive results have piled up.

According to the data, on just two occasions have Villa had an xG more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a team that have strung together ten consecutive victories, they look strangely fragile – but right now the margins are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

The prevailing tactic looks like to exchange chances with rivals and wait for Rogers to bail them out with some precise efforts. It happened away to Leeds, it happened in London, and it happened against the Red Devils.

His opener originated from a superb shot, curled precisely inside the upright from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal acted as a slight scruffier version of the opener as he seized 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.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, the opposition managed more efforts and more efforts on goal. Villa have won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in all but one of those matches.

A statistical correction could be the greatest opponent they must confront as the season progresses. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot maintain blasting the ball into the top corner forever.

A Case for Belief

Could it be a different scenario in which, rather than luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures may yet return to peak condition.

• The main striker may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent could transform into the force he resembled in Germany.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually regain fitness, fortifying a sometimes shaky defence.

Perhaps there is in that the seeds for a sustained push, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.

Savoring the Moment

But then, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Villa would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt back in October, nobody thought the young forward now would be leading a championship pursuit and appearing as an essential Three Lions star.

This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As the hero positioned himself before the Villa faithful when the game ended conducting the cheers, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.