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Just eight weeks ago that the young forward found himself on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed while his coach admonished him over failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. Back then, as Villa went six without a win, the question was if Rogers' form were an indicator or a cause for the side'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 proved to be much more joyous. When the England international swept in his second strike to reinstate the lead for Villa, Emery ripped off his coat, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. The team continued to a 10th successive win , despite not winning their initial half-dozen matches, find themselves just three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Serious Title Contenders?

This is a rather hard proposition to resolve. History, the perceived status of this institution, argues against it. Additionally, they've rarely been wholly dominant this season, despite the fact the positive results have stacked up.

According to statistical analysis, in only two games has the side registered an xG more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a side who have put together a ten-match winning streak, Villa look curiously susceptible – but at the moment the tight outcomes are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

The current approach looks like to exchange chances with an opponent before hoping their star man to bail them out with a couple of precise efforts. It happened at Leeds, it happened in London, and once more against the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal originated from a superb shot, bent right inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. For his second was essentially a slightly less clean iteration of his first as he pounced on a setup by his strike partner.

“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?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, Manchester United managed a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those matches.

A reversion to average might be the greatest opponent they have to face over the coming weeks. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot keep on thrashing the ball past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Perhaps there is an alternative path whereby, rather than results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs may yet find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins may begin to finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho could transform into the player he resembled during his peak.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually come back from the treatment room, strengthening a periodically leaky defensive unit.

This could contain the potential for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on a single individual.

Enjoying the Ride

Yet, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely earlier this season, few could imagine the young forward now would be spearheading a title charge while establishing himself as a vital England player.

The current run must be cherished for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As the match-winner stood in front of the home supporters after the match conducting the cheers, it was clear to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.