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It was two months prior that the young forward stood on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed while his coach berated him for failing to anticipate a through-ball. Back then, as Villa failed to win in six, the question was if Rogers' form were an indicator or the reason of the team's more general malaise.

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

On Sunday, however, the manager's outburst was decidedly more positive. As Rogers drilled in his second strike to reclaim the lead for Villa, the boss tore off his jacket, spread his arms and roared. The team were on their way to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning any of their first six matches, now sit just three points adrift of table-toppers Arsenal.

Is This Team Genuine Title Contenders?

That’s an exceptionally difficult proposition to answer. Past precedent, the traditional standing of the club, argues against it. Furthermore, their performances haven't been entirely convincing this season, despite the fact the victories have stacked up.

According to the data, in only two games has the side had an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a side which has strung together 10 in a row, Villa appear curiously susceptible – yet currently the margins are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic looks like to exchange chances with the opposition before hoping their talisman to save the day with some precise efforts. It happened against Leeds, it happened in London, and once more when facing the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal stemmed from a superb shot, curled right inside the post from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of goal number one 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.”

Can It Last?

Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, the opponents registered a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those matches.

A reversion to average might be the greatest opponent the club must confront over the coming weeks. Their key man, almost certainly, cannot maintain drilling his shots into the top corner forever.

A Case for Belief

Could it be another reality where, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs could still rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward may begin to scoring again.
• The winger might become the force he showed in Germany.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to regain fitness, fortifying a periodically leaky defence.

Maybe within that lies the seeds of a title challenge, but they surely can continue to depend solely on a single individual.

Relishing the Unlikely

However, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And without a doubt back in October, few could imagine the midfielder now would be spearheading a title charge and appearing as a crucial player for the national team.

This winning streak must be cherished precisely because it feels so unlikely. When the match-winner positioned himself before the home supporters after the match leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These spells do not happen often and should be relished.