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It was eight weeks ago that the young forward stood on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed as Unai Emery scolded him over missing a pass in behind. During that period, as Villa failed to win in six, it wasn't clear whether Rogers' form were a symptom or the source for the team's wider issues.

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

In the latest match, though, the sideline response was much more joyous. After the in-form star swept in his brace-sealing goal to restore his side's advantage, Emery tore off his jacket, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. Villa were on their way to ten wins in a row and after failing to win their initial half-dozen matches, find themselves a mere three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.

Is This Team Serious Hopefuls?

It remains a rather hard query to resolve. Past precedent, the traditional standing of Villa, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they've rarely been wholly dominant in many games, even as the victories have piled up.

As per the data, on just two occasions has the team posted an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a club who have just won ten consecutive victories, Villa appear curiously susceptible – yet at the moment the margins are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

The current approach looks like to exchange chances with the opposition and wait for their talisman to rescue them with some clinical strikes. This occurred against Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and once more when facing Manchester United.

The initial strike originated from a brilliant finish, arced precisely inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. For his second proved to be a slightly less clean iteration of the opener as he seized on a pass from Watkins.

“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, Manchester United managed more efforts and more efforts on goal. They have won each of their last eight by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all except one of those fixtures.

A reversion to average might be the biggest rival they have to face as the season progresses. Rogers, almost certainly, will not continue to drilling the football past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is an alternative path where, instead of luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs may yet find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins might resume finding the net regularly.
• The winger may rediscover the performer he was in Germany.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually regain fitness, strengthening a sometimes shaky backline.

Maybe within that lies the seeds for a sustained push, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

But then, nobody expected this. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt earlier this season, no one envisioned the young forward by the end of the year would be spearheading a title charge while looking like a vital player for the national team.

This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As the match-winner positioned himself before the North End at the final whistle leading the celebrations, it was clear to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form are rare in football and should be relished.