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A mere eight weeks ago when the young forward was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered while his coach scolded him for not reading a penetrating pass. Back then, as the club endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained whether Rogers' form were an indicator or a cause for Villa's more general malaise.

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

In the latest match, in contrast, the manager's outburst proved to be decidedly more positive. After Rogers swept in his second strike to reinstate his side's advantage, the boss ripped off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. The team marched on to ten wins in a row , despite not winning their initial half-dozen fixtures, find themselves a mere three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Challengers?

This is a rather hard query to answer. The historical record, the traditional standing of this institution, indicates otherwise. Moreover, their performances haven't been completely commanding during this run, even as the victories have stacked up.

As per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the team had an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a side which has put together ten consecutive victories, Villa look weirdly vulnerable – however at the moment the tight outcomes are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

The current approach appears to be to trade blows with an opponent before hoping their talisman to bail them out with two clinical strikes. It happened away to Leeds, it transpired in London, and again versus the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal stemmed from an exquisite effort, arced right inside the upright from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal acted as a slight scruffier version of goal number one 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.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, Manchester United managed more efforts and more direct attempts. Villa have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those matches.

A reversion to average might be the most significant challenge the club have to face as the season progresses. Rogers, surely, cannot maintain blasting the ball into the net's top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists an alternative path where, instead of luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet find their top level.

• The main striker might resume scoring again.
• The winger might become the player he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to regain fitness, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

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

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Villa would sit third at Christmas. And without a doubt two months ago, few could imagine Rogers as the year closed would be spearheading a title charge and appearing as an essential Three Lions star.

The current run should be enjoyed exactly since it appears so improbable. As Rogers positioned himself before the home supporters after the match conducting the cheers, he appeared to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form are rare in football and should be relished.