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Just two months ago when the Villa attacker found himself on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed while his coach berated him for missing a penetrating pass. During that period, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained if his displays were a sign or the reason for the side's broader struggles.

“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”

In the latest match, in contrast, the touchline reaction was much more joyous. When Rogers drilled in his second to reclaim the lead for Villa, Emery tore off his jacket, opened his arms and roared. The team were on their way to ten wins in a row and having failed to win any of their first six fixtures, now sit a mere three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Serious Challengers?

It remains an exceptionally difficult question to answer. Past precedent, the perceived status of Villa, argues against it. Additionally, they've rarely been wholly dominant this season, even as the victories have stacked up.

As per statistical analysis, in only two games has the side registered an xG more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a team that have strung together 10 in a row, they look strangely fragile – however right now the tight outcomes are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

The current approach looks like to trade blows with rivals before hoping Rogers to save the day with some crisp finishes. It happened at Leeds, it transpired in London, and once more against United.

Rogers' first goal stemmed from a superb shot, bent precisely inside the post from the corner of the box. For his second was essentially a somewhat messier replica of the opener capitalizing on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“Perhaps Rogers’ right foot is becoming like Arjen Robben’s left: just because you know he’s going to whip the ball into the top corner doesn’t mean you can stop him.”

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, Manchester United registered more efforts and more direct attempts. They have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those fixtures.

A reversion to average might be the most significant challenge the club have to face as the season progresses. The forward, surely, cannot keep on blasting the football into the top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Could it be another reality whereby, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players might still return to peak condition.

• Ollie Watkins could start finding the net regularly.
• The attacking talent may rediscover the force he was during his peak.
• The defensive duo are due to return from injury, bolstering a sometimes shaky defence.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility for a sustained push, but they surely can continue to depend solely on a single individual.

Relishing the Unlikely

But then, this was unforeseen. Few believed Aston Villa would be in the top three for the holidays. And certainly two months ago, few could imagine the young forward by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while looking like a crucial England player.

The current run should be enjoyed exactly since it seems so surreal. When the match-winner stood in front of the North End at the final whistle leading the celebrations, it was clear to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.