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Just eight weeks in the past that the young forward was standing on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed while his coach scolded him over not reading a penetrating pass. At that point, as Villa went six without a win, it wasn't clear if his performances were an indicator or the reason of the team's more general malaise.

“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”

This weekend, however, the sideline response was entirely decidedly more positive. After the in-form star drilled in his second strike to reclaim the lead for Villa, Emery tore off his coat, spread his arms and bellowed. The team continued to a tenth straight victory , despite not winning their initial half-dozen games, are somehow just three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Challengers?

This is a particularly tough proposition to answer. The historical record, the perceived status of this institution, indicates otherwise. Additionally, they have not been completely commanding in many games, while the wins have stacked up.

Per the data, in only two games has the side registered an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a team who have strung together a ten-match winning streak, the Villans look strangely fragile – but at the moment the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Winning Formula

The prevailing tactic looks like to exchange chances with rivals before hoping Rogers to bail them out with a couple of crisp finishes. This occurred at Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and it happened when facing Manchester United.

The initial strike originated from a superb shot, curled just inside the post from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal acted as a slight scruffier version of goal number one as he seized on a pass from Watkins.

“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opposition managed a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. Villa have won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those fixtures.

A statistical correction might be the most significant challenge Villa must confront over the coming weeks. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot keep on blasting the ball into the top corner indefinitely.

A Case for Belief

Maybe there exists an alternative path in which, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players may yet return to peak condition.

• The centre-forward might resume adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent could transform into the player he was during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs are due to return from injury, bolstering a sometimes shaky defence.

Maybe within that lies the seeds of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on a single individual.

Savoring the Moment

However, this is a surprise. Nobody thought the team would occupy third at Christmas. And without a doubt two months ago, no one envisioned the midfielder as the year closed would be spearheading a hunt for the title and appearing as a vital Three Lions star.

This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As the hero positioned himself before the home supporters at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he seemed to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.