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A mere two months prior when the young forward was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered while Unai Emery scolded him over missing a through-ball. During that period, with the team went six without a win, doubts remained if his displays were a symptom or the reason for the team's broader struggles.

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

This weekend, in contrast, the manager's outburst proved to be much more joyous. When Rogers swept in his second to reinstate Villa's lead, Emery ripped off his jacket, spread his arms and roared. The Birmingham club continued to a 10th successive win and after failing to win any of their first six matches, find themselves a mere three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Challengers?

It remains an exceptionally difficult proposition to resolve. The historical record, the traditional standing of the club, argues against it. Furthermore, their performances haven't been completely commanding during this run, while the positive results have piled up.

According to statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the side registered an expected goals figure significantly higher than the opposition. For a club that have strung together a ten-match winning streak, the Villans appear strangely fragile – yet currently the tight outcomes are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

The current approach seems to be to exchange chances with the opposition and wait for their star man to bail them out with two precise efforts. This occurred away to Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and once more versus United.

Rogers' first goal originated from a brilliant finish, curled right inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal was essentially 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.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Logic says not. During the latest victory, Manchester United registered more shots and more direct attempts. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all but one of those games.

Regression to the mean could be the most significant challenge they will encounter in the near future. Rogers, in all likelihood, will not continue to drilling the ball into the top corner indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is an alternative path whereby, rather than results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs could still find their top level.

• The main striker may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• The winger may rediscover the player he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to regain fitness, fortifying a periodically leaky defence.

This could contain the potential of a title challenge, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on one man.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this is a surprise. Nobody thought the team would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And certainly earlier this season, nobody thought Rogers now would be at the forefront of a title charge while establishing himself as a crucial Three Lions star.

This winning streak is to be savoured exactly since it feels so unlikely. As Rogers faced the Villa faithful after the match leading the celebrations, it was clear to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. These runs of form do not happen often and must be appreciated.