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It was eight weeks in the past when the young forward stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered as his coach admonished him for failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. During that period, as the club went six without a win, doubts remained whether his performances were a sign or the source for Villa's wider issues.

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

On Sunday, though, the manager's outburst proved to be much more joyous. As Rogers swept in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim his side's advantage, Emery tore off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and roared. The Birmingham club continued to a tenth straight victory , after failing to win their initial half-dozen games, now sit a mere three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.

Is This Team Serious Title Contenders?

This is an exceptionally difficult query to answer. The historical record, the traditional standing of this institution, argues against it. Additionally, they have not been wholly dominant during this run, even as the victories have stacked up.

As per statistical analysis, twice all season have Villa posted an xG notably superior than the other team. For a team that have just won a ten-match winning streak, the Villans seem strangely fragile – however right now the fine lines are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy looks like to trade blows with rivals and then rely on their talisman to rescue them with some crisp finishes. It happened against Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and once more against the Red Devils.

His opener originated from an exquisite effort, arced precisely inside the upright from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of his first as he pounced 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.”

Is It Sustainable?

Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, the opponents managed more shots and more shots on target. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those matches.

Regression to the mean might be the biggest rival the club will encounter as the season progresses. Their key man, surely, cannot keep on thrashing the ball into the net's top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Could it be another reality in which, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs may yet find their top level.

• The centre-forward may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent may rediscover the force he was in Germany.
• The defensive duo are set to regain fitness, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

This could contain the possibility for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on one man.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, nobody expected this. Nobody thought the team would occupy third at Christmas. And without a doubt earlier this season, nobody thought Rogers as the year closed would be spearheading a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a vital England player.

The current run is to be savoured precisely because it feels so unlikely. As the match-winner faced the home supporters after the match leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. Such periods do not happen often and must be appreciated.