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Just eight weeks in the past when the Villa attacker was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered while his coach scolded him for failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. During that period, as Villa went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether his displays were an indicator or a cause for the side's wider issues.

“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”

In the latest match, though, the manager's outburst proved to be decidedly more positive. After the in-form star swept in his second strike to reclaim his side's advantage, Emery ripped off his coat, spread his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club continued to ten wins in a row , after failing to win any of their first six matches, now sit a mere three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Hopefuls?

This is a rather hard question to answer. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, argues against it. Furthermore, their performances haven't been entirely convincing this season, even as the positive results have accumulated.

As per Opta, in only two games has the team had an xG more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a side who have put together a ten-match winning streak, Villa seem weirdly vulnerable – but at the moment the margins are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy seems to be to trade blows with the opposition and wait for Rogers to save the day with some clinical strikes. This was the case against Leeds, it occurred in London, and it happened when facing Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal stemmed from a brilliant finish, bent right inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he seized on a pass from Watkins.

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

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, Manchester United had a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those fixtures.

A reversion to average could be the biggest rival they must confront as the season progresses. The forward, in all likelihood, will not continue to thrashing his shots into the net's top corner forever.

A Case for Belief

Perhaps there is an alternative path whereby, instead of results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players may yet find their top level.

• The centre-forward may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent may rediscover the force he showed during his peak.
• The defensive duo will eventually come back from the treatment room, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable backline.

Maybe within that lies the seeds of a title challenge, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on a single individual.

Savoring the Moment

But then, this is a surprise. Few believed Aston Villa would sit third at Christmas. And most definitely earlier this season, few could imagine the young forward as the year closed would be spearheading a hunt for the title and appearing as an essential Three Lions star.

This winning streak is to be savoured for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When Rogers stood in front of the home supporters at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he appeared to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells do not happen often and must be appreciated.