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Just two months ago that the young forward was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered as the Villa manager scolded him for failing to anticipate a through-ball. During that period, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear whether his displays were a sign or a cause of Villa's more general malaise.

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

On Sunday, though, the manager's outburst was decidedly more positive. When the England international curled home his second to reclaim his side's advantage, Emery ripped off his coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. Villa continued to a 10th successive win , having failed to win their opening six fixtures, are somehow just three points adrift of table-toppers Arsenal.

Are They Serious Hopefuls?

This is a particularly tough query to address. Past precedent, a general sense of the club, argues against it. Additionally, they've rarely been entirely convincing during this run, even as the wins have accumulated.

As per the data, twice all season have Villa had an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a side which has just won 10 in a row, Villa seem curiously susceptible – but right now the tight outcomes are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy looks like to engage in a shootout with the opposition and then rely on their star man to rescue them with a couple of clinical strikes. This occurred against Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and once more against the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal originated from a brilliant finish, bent precisely inside the post from the corner of the box. For his second was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first as he seized 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?

Reason suggests otherwise. In the recent win, Manchester United managed more shots and more direct attempts. They have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all but one of those matches.

A reversion to average may well be the biggest rival Villa will encounter in the near future. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot maintain blasting the football past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists an alternative path where, instead of results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs could still rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho could transform into the player he showed in Germany.
• The defensive duo are due to return from injury, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

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

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Villa would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely two months ago, no one envisioned Rogers now would be spearheading a hunt for the title while looking like a vital player for the national team.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed exactly since it seems so surreal. As Rogers faced the Villa faithful at the final whistle orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.