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Just two months ago when the Villa attacker stood on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while his coach admonished him for missing a through-ball. Back then, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, the question was whether Rogers' form were a sign or a cause for the team's broader struggles.

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

On Sunday, however, the manager's outburst was much more joyous. When Rogers swept in his second strike to restore Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician tore off his coat, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club were on their way to ten wins in a row , after failing to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, now sit just three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.

Is This Team Serious Hopefuls?

That’s an exceptionally difficult query to answer. Past precedent, the traditional standing of this institution, argues against it. Moreover, they've rarely been entirely convincing in many games, while the positive results have stacked up.

Per the data, in only two games has the side posted an expected goals figure notably superior than the opposition. For a club who have put together ten consecutive victories, the Villans appear curiously susceptible – but currently the margins are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic looks like to trade blows with the opposition and then rely on their talisman to save the day with a couple of clinical strikes. This was the case away to Leeds, it occurred in London, and once more against the Red Devils.

The initial strike came from a superb shot, bent just inside the post from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of his first 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. Against United, Manchester United had more shots and more efforts on goal. They have won each of their last eight by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those fixtures.

A reversion to average could be the most significant challenge Villa have to face over the coming weeks. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot maintain thrashing his shots into the net's top corner week in, week out.

Reasons for Optimism

Perhaps there is a different scenario whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs could still return to peak condition.

• The centre-forward might resume finding the net regularly.
• The winger might become the force he was in Germany.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually regain fitness, strengthening a sometimes shaky backline.

This could contain the possibility for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

However, this is a surprise. Nobody thought the team would be in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely earlier this season, no one envisioned the midfielder by the end of the year would be leading a hunt for the title and appearing as a vital Three Lions star.

This winning streak should be enjoyed precisely because it feels so unlikely. When Rogers stood in front of the North End at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he appeared to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form do not happen often and should be relished.