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Just eight weeks prior when the young forward was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered while his coach admonished him over missing a through-ball. At that point, as Villa failed to win in six, doubts remained whether his performances were a sign or the source of the side's wider issues.

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

On Sunday, however, the sideline response was much more joyous. As the England international swept in his second strike to restore his side's advantage, the boss ripped off his coat, spread his arms and roared. The team continued to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win their opening six fixtures, find themselves just three points adrift of table-toppers Arsenal.

Is This Team Legitimate Challengers?

That’s a rather hard query to address. The historical record, the perceived status of Villa, suggests not. Additionally, they have not been entirely convincing during this run, even as the positive results have piled up.

Per the data, in only two games has the side had an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a club that have just won 10 in a row, they seem curiously susceptible – but right now the tight outcomes are going in their favour.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy seems to be to trade blows with rivals and then rely on Rogers to save the day with two precise efforts. This was the case against Leeds, it transpired in London, and once more versus United.

Rogers' first goal originated from a superb shot, arced right inside the post from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of the opener 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.”

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opposition registered a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. They have won each of their last eight by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all except one of those games.

A reversion to average may well be the greatest opponent they must confront in the near future. The forward, almost certainly, will not continue to drilling the football past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Perhaps there is a different scenario whereby, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players could still rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward could start finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho could transform into the performer he showed in Germany.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to regain fitness, fortifying a periodically leaky defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the seeds for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on a single individual.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And certainly back in October, few could imagine Rogers by the end of the year would be leading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a crucial England player.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As Rogers stood in front of the North End after the match orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.