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A mere two months ago when the Villa attacker was standing on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed while his coach scolded him over not reading a penetrating pass. During that period, as Villa went six without a win, doubts remained whether his displays were a symptom or the source for the side'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, in contrast, the touchline reaction was much more joyous. After the in-form star curled home his second strike to reinstate his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician ripped off his winter coat, opened his arms and roared. The team were on their way to a tenth straight victory and having failed to win any of their first six matches, are somehow only three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Hopefuls?

This is a rather hard query to address. History, the traditional standing of this institution, argues against it. Furthermore, their performances haven't been completely commanding during this run, while the positive results have stacked up.

As per statistical analysis, in only two games has the side posted an xG more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a side which has just won 10 in a row, Villa seem curiously susceptible – but at the moment the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Reliant Strategy

The current approach looks like to trade blows with rivals before hoping Rogers to save the day with some crisp finishes. This occurred away to Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and again versus United.

Rogers' first goal originated from a superb shot, curled precisely inside the upright from a wide position. The follow-up goal acted as a slightly less clean iteration of the opener 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.”

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opposition had more shots and more efforts on goal. The team has secured their last eight victories by a single goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those matches.

A reversion to average might be the most significant challenge they must confront as the season progresses. Their key man, surely, cannot maintain blasting his shots into the top corner indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Perhaps there is an alternative path in which, rather than luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures might still return to peak condition.

• Ollie Watkins may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the force he resembled in Germany.
• The defensive duo will eventually regain fitness, fortifying a sometimes shaky backline.

Maybe within that lies the potential for a sustained push, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

But then, nobody expected this. Nobody thought Aston Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And certainly two months ago, no one envisioned Rogers now would be leading a hunt for the title and appearing as an essential Three Lions star.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed for the very reason that it seems so surreal. When the match-winner stood in front of the North End after the match leading the celebrations, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.