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Just two months prior that the young forward was standing on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed while his coach berated him for failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. At that point, as Villa failed to win in six, doubts remained if his performances were a symptom or a cause for the team's wider issues.

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

In the latest match, in contrast, the sideline response proved to be far more favourable. After the in-form star curled home his second to restore Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician ripped off his winter coat, opened his arms and roared. Villa continued to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning their initial half-dozen games, find themselves only three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Challengers?

It remains a rather hard question to answer. The historical record, a general sense of this institution, suggests not. Furthermore, they've rarely been wholly dominant during this run, even as the positive results have stacked up.

According to statistical analysis, in only two games have Villa registered an expected goals figure significantly higher than the opposition. For a side that have just won ten consecutive victories, the Villans seem curiously susceptible – but at the moment the margins are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy appears to be to engage in a shootout with an opponent and then rely on their star man to bail them out with two crisp finishes. This was the case at Leeds, it occurred in London, and again against the Red Devils.

The initial strike originated from an exquisite effort, bent just inside the post from a wide position. His brace-completing goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of his first as he seized on a pass from Watkins.

“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”

Can It Last?

Reason suggests otherwise. In the recent win, Manchester United managed more efforts and more shots on target. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all except one of those games.

A reversion to average may well be the biggest rival they have to face in the near future. Rogers, surely, cannot maintain drilling the ball into the top corner indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Perhaps there is a different scenario whereby, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures may yet rediscover their best form.

• The main striker could start scoring again.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the player he showed during his peak.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually come back from the treatment room, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defence.

This could contain the seeds for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.

Relishing the Unlikely

But then, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Aston Villa would sit third at Christmas. And without a doubt earlier this season, no one envisioned Rogers as the year closed would be spearheading a title charge while establishing himself as an essential England player.

The current run must be cherished for the very reason that it seems so surreal. When the hero faced the North End at the final whistle orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. Such periods do not happen often and must be appreciated.