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It was 60 days ago that the Villa attacker found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed while the Villa manager berated him for failing to anticipate a through-ball. At that point, as the club went six without a win, the question was if Rogers' form were a sign or the reason for the side's more general malaise.

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

On Sunday, however, the sideline response proved to be decidedly more positive. When the England international swept in his second strike to reinstate the lead for Villa, the boss discarded his winter coat, opened his arms and roared. The Birmingham club marched on to a tenth straight victory and having failed to win any of their first six matches, now sit a mere three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Challengers?

It remains a particularly tough question to answer. The historical record, the traditional standing of Villa, suggests not. Furthermore, they've rarely been completely commanding during this run, while the positive results have accumulated.

As per the data, in only two games have Villa posted an xG notably superior than the other team. For a club that have strung together 10 in a row, Villa look strangely fragile – however currently the tight outcomes are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

The current approach seems to be to exchange chances with the opposition before hoping Rogers to rescue them with two crisp finishes. This occurred at Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and it happened when facing the Red Devils.

His opener originated from a brilliant finish, bent just inside the upright from a wide position. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slightly less clean iteration of the opener capitalizing on a setup by his strike partner.

“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?

Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, the opponents managed more shots and more direct attempts. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those matches.

A reversion to average could be the biggest rival they must confront as the season progresses. Their key man, almost certainly, will not continue to drilling the football past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Could it be another reality whereby, rather than results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players may yet rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho might become the force he showed in Germany.
• The defensive duo are due to return from injury, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable backline.

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

Savoring the Moment

However, this was unforeseen. Few believed the team would be third at Christmas. And most definitely earlier this season, few could imagine the midfielder by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit and appearing as an essential England player.

The current run is to be savoured for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When Rogers faced the Villa faithful when the game ended conducting the cheers, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form do not happen often and must be appreciated.