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A mere 60 days ago that the young forward stood on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed while the Villa manager berated him over missing a penetrating pass. Back then, as the club went six without a win, it wasn't clear if his displays were an indicator or the reason for the side's more general malaise.

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

On Sunday, in contrast, the touchline reaction was entirely much more joyous. After the England international curled home his second strike to restore the lead for Villa, Emery discarded his coat, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The team marched on to a tenth straight victory and having failed to win their opening six fixtures, are somehow only three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Title Contenders?

That’s an exceptionally difficult query to resolve. The historical record, a general sense of this institution, suggests not. Moreover, they have not been completely commanding in many games, even as the wins have accumulated.

As per Opta, on just two occasions have Villa had an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a team which has put together ten consecutive victories, the Villans appear weirdly vulnerable – yet right now the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy seems to be to engage in a shootout with rivals before hoping their star man to bail them out with two crisp finishes. It happened at Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and again when facing United.

The initial strike stemmed from a brilliant finish, bent right inside the upright from the edge of the area. For his second acted as a somewhat messier replica of goal number one capitalizing on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”

Can It Last?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, Manchester United managed a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those games.

A statistical correction may well be the most significant challenge Villa will encounter as the season progresses. Rogers, almost certainly, cannot keep on blasting the football into the top corner indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists a different scenario in which, instead of results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players may yet find their top level.

• The centre-forward could start scoring again.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the player he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs are set to return from injury, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defence.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a title challenge, but they surely cannot keep relying on a single individual.

Enjoying the Ride

But then, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought the team would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And certainly back in October, no one envisioned the midfielder by the end of the year would be spearheading a championship pursuit while looking like an essential England player.

The current run must be cherished precisely because it appears so improbable. As Rogers positioned himself before the Villa faithful at the final whistle orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.