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It was two months ago that the Villa attacker stood on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed as his coach admonished him over missing a penetrating pass. At that point, as Villa went six without a win, doubts remained if his displays were a symptom or the reason for the side's broader struggles.

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

This weekend, though, the sideline response was decidedly more positive. After Rogers drilled in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim Villa's lead, Emery discarded his winter coat, spread his arms and roared. The Birmingham club were on their way to a 10th successive win , after failing to win any of their first six matches, are somehow only three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Are They Serious Hopefuls?

It remains a particularly tough proposition to answer. Past precedent, a general sense of this institution, indicates otherwise. Additionally, their performances haven't been entirely convincing in many games, despite the fact the wins have stacked up.

As per Opta, on just two occasions has the team registered an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a team who have put together ten consecutive victories, the Villans appear strangely fragile – but currently the fine lines are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

The current approach looks like to engage in a shootout with rivals and wait for Rogers to save the day with two precise efforts. This was the case away to Leeds, it transpired in London, and it happened when facing Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal originated from a brilliant finish, arced just inside the post from a wide position. His brace-completing goal proved to be a slight scruffier version of the opener as he seized on a pass from Watkins.

“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.”

Can It Last?

Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, the opponents managed more efforts and more efforts on goal. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those fixtures.

A statistical correction could be the greatest opponent they will encounter in the near future. Their key man, surely, cannot keep on blasting his shots into the net's top corner week in, week out.

Reasons for Optimism

Maybe there exists a different scenario in which, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures might still rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins might resume scoring again.
• Jadon Sancho could transform into the force he was during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs are set to return from injury, strengthening a sometimes shaky backline.

This could contain the potential of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Villa would be in the top three for the holidays. And certainly back in October, no one envisioned the young forward now would be spearheading a hunt for the title and appearing as a crucial player for the national team.

The current run must be cherished for the very reason that it seems so surreal. When the hero stood in front of the North End after the match conducting the cheers, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. These runs of form are rare in football and should be relished.