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Just 60 days ago that the Villa attacker found himself on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while the Villa manager scolded him for not reading a penetrating pass. During that period, as Villa failed to win in six, it wasn't clear if Rogers' form were an indicator or the source of the side's broader struggles.

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

On Sunday, in contrast, the touchline reaction was decidedly more positive. After the in-form star curled home his brace-sealing goal to reinstate the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician discarded his winter coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. Villa were on their way to a tenth straight victory and having failed to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, are somehow a mere three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.

Is This Team Genuine Hopefuls?

This is an exceptionally difficult question to address. The historical record, a general sense of this institution, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they have not been completely commanding in many games, even as the victories have accumulated.

According to statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the team posted an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a club who have strung together a ten-match winning streak, Villa seem weirdly vulnerable – however right now the tight outcomes are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

The current approach seems to be to trade blows with an opponent and wait for Rogers to save the day with two clinical strikes. This occurred at Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and it happened when facing the Red Devils.

His opener came from a brilliant finish, curled right inside the upright from a wide position. The follow-up goal proved to be a slight scruffier version of his first as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.

“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”

Can It Last?

Logic says not. In the recent win, the opposition registered more efforts and more direct attempts. Villa have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those matches.

A statistical correction might be the biggest rival the club have to face as the season progresses. The forward, almost certainly, will not continue to blasting his shots into the net's top corner indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Could it be another reality whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures could still return to peak condition.

• Ollie Watkins might resume adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho could transform into the player he was in Germany.
• The defensive duo are set to return from injury, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable backline.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on one man.

Savoring the Moment

However, this was unforeseen. Few believed Aston Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt earlier this season, no one envisioned the midfielder by the end of the year would be leading a title charge and appearing as a crucial player for the national team.

The current run should be enjoyed precisely because it appears so improbable. When Rogers faced the home supporters when the game ended 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 ought to be celebrated.