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Just 60 days in the past when the Villa attacker was standing on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed as the Villa manager berated him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. At that point, as Villa failed to win in six, doubts remained if Rogers' form were a symptom or the reason for Villa's broader struggles.

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

This weekend, in contrast, the sideline response proved to be far more favourable. When the in-form star curled home his brace-sealing goal to reinstate the lead for Villa, Emery ripped off his jacket, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The team continued to a 10th successive win and after failing to win their opening six fixtures, are somehow only three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Hopefuls?

This is a particularly tough question to resolve. The historical record, the perceived status of Villa, indicates otherwise. Additionally, their performances haven't been entirely convincing in many games, while the positive results have accumulated.

As per the data, twice all season have Villa registered an xG notably superior than their opponents. For a side that have put together a ten-match winning streak, Villa look curiously susceptible – but currently the tight outcomes are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

The current approach appears to be to trade blows with rivals and wait for Rogers to bail them out with some precise efforts. It happened away to Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and it happened against United.

Rogers' first goal originated from an exquisite effort, curled right inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. For his second proved to be a slight scruffier version of goal number one as he pounced on a setup by his strike partner.

“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. During the latest victory, the opponents registered more efforts and more shots on target. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. The defence has been breached in all but one of those matches.

A reversion to average may well be the greatest opponent the club will encounter in the near future. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot maintain thrashing the football into the net's top corner week in, week out.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be another reality whereby, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures may yet rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent might become the force he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• The defensive duo will eventually regain fitness, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the potential of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.

Enjoying the Ride

Yet, nobody expected this. Nobody thought Aston Villa would sit in the top three for the holidays. And certainly earlier this season, few could imagine the midfielder now would be spearheading a hunt for the title while looking like an essential England player.

The current run should be enjoyed precisely because it appears so improbable. When Rogers positioned himself before the home supporters at the final whistle leading the celebrations, it was clear to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. Such periods are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.