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It was two months ago when the Villa attacker stood on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed while his coach berated him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. At that point, as Villa went six without a win, the question was whether his displays were an indicator or the source of the side's wider issues.

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

On Sunday, in contrast, the sideline response was far more favourable. When the England international drilled in his second strike to restore his side's advantage, the boss ripped off his jacket, opened his arms and bellowed. Villa were on their way to a tenth straight victory , after failing to win their opening six fixtures, find themselves only three points adrift of table-toppers Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Serious Hopefuls?

This is a particularly tough query to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, argues against it. Additionally, their performances haven't been wholly dominant during this run, despite the fact the positive results have piled up.

As per the data, twice all season have Villa had an xG significantly higher than the opposition. For a team that have strung together ten consecutive victories, the Villans seem weirdly vulnerable – yet at the moment the margins are swinging for them.

The Reliant Strategy

The prevailing tactic looks like to exchange chances with an opponent and wait for Rogers to rescue them with two crisp finishes. This occurred away to Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and once more against United.

His opener came from an exquisite effort, curled precisely inside the post from a wide position. His brace-completing goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he pounced 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.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Logic says not. In the recent win, the opponents managed more shots and more efforts on goal. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those matches.

A reversion to average might be the most significant challenge they must confront in the near future. Their key man, almost certainly, will not continue to thrashing his shots past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists another reality in which, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players might still find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• The winger could transform into the force he resembled in Germany.
• The defensive duo will eventually come back from the treatment room, strengthening a sometimes shaky defence.

Maybe within that lies the potential of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on one man.

Savoring the Moment

However, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Villa would sit third at Christmas. And certainly earlier this season, no one envisioned the young forward as the year closed would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while looking like a crucial player for the national team.

The current run should be enjoyed precisely because it seems so surreal. As Rogers faced the North End at the final whistle conducting the cheers, it was clear to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. These spells are rare in football and should be relished.