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It was eight weeks in the past that the young forward was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered while the Villa manager scolded him for not reading a pass in behind. During that period, with the team endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear if Rogers' form were an indicator or a cause for Villa's more general malaise.

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

This weekend, in contrast, the manager's outburst was entirely far more favourable. As the England international swept in his second to reclaim his side's advantage, the boss tore off his coat, threw his arms wide and roared. Villa continued to a tenth straight victory and having failed to win any of their first six fixtures, now sit just three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Serious Challengers?

That’s a rather hard query to answer. The historical record, a general sense of Villa, suggests not. Moreover, their performances haven't been wholly dominant this season, despite the fact the victories have stacked up.

As per statistical analysis, in only two games have Villa posted an xG significantly higher than the opposition. For a club who have put together ten consecutive victories, they look strangely fragile – yet at the moment the tight outcomes are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic looks like to trade blows with the opposition and wait for their star man to save the day with two precise efforts. This was the case against Leeds, it happened in London, and again versus United.

His opener stemmed from a brilliant finish, arced precisely inside the goal frame from a wide position. The follow-up goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of his first as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.

“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?

Reason suggests otherwise. In the recent win, Manchester United had a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those fixtures.

A reversion to average may well be the biggest rival they must confront as the season progresses. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot keep on thrashing the ball into the net's top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists an alternative path where, rather than results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures may yet return to peak condition.

• The main striker might resume finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the player he showed in Germany.
• The injured centre-backs are set to return from injury, strengthening a sometimes shaky defence.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a title challenge, but they surely can continue to depend solely on a single individual.

Relishing the Unlikely

But then, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Villa would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And certainly back in October, no one envisioned the young forward as the year closed would be leading a title charge while establishing himself as a crucial England player.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed exactly since it feels so unlikely. When the hero positioned himself before the home supporters when the game ended leading the celebrations, he seemed to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.