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Just eight weeks in the past that the Villa attacker found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while Unai Emery scolded him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. During that period, with the team went six without a win, doubts remained if Rogers' form were a symptom or the reason for the side's more general malaise.

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

On Sunday, in contrast, the touchline reaction was entirely much more joyous. After the England international drilled in his brace-sealing goal to reinstate his side's advantage, the boss discarded his winter coat, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club marched on to ten wins in a row , after failing to win their initial half-dozen games, are somehow just three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Challengers?

It remains a rather hard query to answer. History, the perceived status of the club, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, they have not been completely commanding during this run, while the wins have accumulated.

As per statistical analysis, in only two games have Villa posted an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a team who have just won 10 in a row, Villa look weirdly vulnerable – however right now the tight outcomes are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic looks like to exchange chances with the opposition and then rely on Rogers to bail them out with some clinical strikes. This occurred against Leeds, it occurred in London, and it happened versus Manchester United.

The initial strike originated from a brilliant finish, bent precisely inside the post from the corner of the box. For his second was essentially a slight scruffier version 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 opposition registered more shots and more shots on target. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those games.

A reversion to average may well be the greatest opponent they must confront in the near future. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot maintain blasting the ball into the top corner week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is an alternative path whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs might still rediscover their best form.

• The main striker may begin to finding the net regularly.
• The winger could transform into the player he was during his peak.
• The defensive duo will eventually come back from the treatment room, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the seeds for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.

Enjoying the Ride

But then, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought the team would sit third at Christmas. And most definitely two months ago, nobody thought the midfielder now would be spearheading a championship pursuit while looking like a vital Three Lions star.

This winning streak should be enjoyed precisely because it feels so unlikely. When the match-winner faced the Villa faithful at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These runs of form do not happen often and must be appreciated.