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It was 60 days ago that the Villa attacker found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed while his coach admonished him over failing to anticipate 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 team's wider issues.

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

On Sunday, in contrast, the manager's outburst proved to be far more favourable. As the in-form star curled home his brace-sealing goal to reclaim the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician discarded his coat, threw his arms wide and roared. The team were on their way to ten wins in a row , after failing to win any of their first six matches, now sit just three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Is This Team Serious Hopefuls?

It remains an exceptionally difficult query to address. History, the perceived status of Villa, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, their performances haven't been entirely convincing in many games, while the wins have piled up.

According to Opta, on just two occasions has the team had an xG significantly higher than the other team. For a side that have put together 10 in a row, the Villans seem curiously susceptible – but currently the tight outcomes are swinging for them.

The Reliant Strategy

The prevailing tactic looks like to exchange chances with an opponent and then rely on their talisman to bail them out with two crisp finishes. It happened against Leeds, it occurred in London, and it happened versus the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal stemmed 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 his first as he pounced 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.”

Can It Last?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opponents had a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. The team has won each of their last eight by just one goal. They’ve conceded in all except one of those fixtures.

A reversion to average could be the greatest opponent they will encounter in the near future. The forward, surely, cannot maintain blasting the ball into the top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists an alternative path in which, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures might still find their top level.

• The centre-forward could start adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the force he resembled during his peak.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to come back from the treatment room, strengthening a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

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

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable the team would sit in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt two months ago, no one envisioned the midfielder as the year closed would be leading a title charge and appearing as a vital player for the national team.

The current run should be enjoyed precisely because it appears so improbable. As Rogers positioned himself before the home supporters when the game ended orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are rare in football and must be appreciated.