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It was eight weeks in the past that the Villa attacker was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed as his coach scolded him for failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. During that period, as the club endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained if his displays were a symptom or the reason of the team's broader struggles.

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

This weekend, however, the sideline response proved to be much more joyous. As the England international swept in his second to reinstate his side's advantage, Emery discarded his winter coat, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The team continued to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning their initial half-dozen games, are somehow a mere three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Challengers?

That’s a particularly tough question to address. Past precedent, the traditional standing of this institution, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, they've rarely been wholly dominant this season, despite the fact the victories have accumulated.

As per Opta, twice all season have Villa had an expected goals figure notably superior than the opposition. For a side which has strung together a ten-match winning streak, the Villans appear weirdly vulnerable – but at the moment the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic seems to be to exchange chances with rivals before hoping their talisman to bail them out with a couple of clinical strikes. This was the case against Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and it happened against the Red Devils.

His opener came from a superb shot, bent right inside the post from a wide position. The follow-up goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of his first as he pounced on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

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

How Long Can This Continue?

Logic says not. Against United, the opponents registered more efforts and more direct attempts. They have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all but one of those fixtures.

A reversion to average may well be the most significant challenge Villa have to face as the season progresses. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot maintain thrashing his shots into the net's top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is another reality where, rather than results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players might still return to peak condition.

• The centre-forward could start adding to his goal tally.
• The winger might become the player he resembled in Germany.
• The injured centre-backs are due to return from injury, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable backline.

Maybe within that lies the seeds for a sustained push, but they surely can continue to depend solely on one man.

Savoring the Moment

But then, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely two months ago, nobody thought the midfielder by the end of the year would be spearheading a title charge while establishing himself as an essential player for the national team.

This remarkable period must be cherished exactly since it feels so unlikely. As the hero faced the Villa faithful at the final whistle leading the celebrations, it was clear to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These spells are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.