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It was two months in the past when the young forward was standing on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed as Unai Emery berated him for not reading a pass in behind. Back then, with the team failed to win in six, it wasn't clear whether his displays were an indicator or a cause of Villa'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 manager's outburst was much more joyous. When the England international curled home his second to restore the lead for Villa, the boss ripped off his coat, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. Villa marched on to ten wins in a row and despite not winning their initial half-dozen games, are somehow just three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Is This Team Legitimate Challengers?

That’s a particularly tough question to address. The historical record, the perceived status of Villa, indicates otherwise. Additionally, their performances haven't been completely commanding this season, while the wins have accumulated.

Per Opta, twice all season has the side posted an xG significantly higher than the other team. For a club that have put together 10 in a row, Villa seem curiously susceptible – yet right now the tight outcomes are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy seems to be to exchange chances with an opponent and then rely on their star man to save the day with two precise efforts. This was the case against Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and again against the Red Devils.

His opener originated from a brilliant finish, arced just inside the post from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of goal number one as he seized 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.”

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opponents registered more shots and more efforts on goal. Villa have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all but one of those matches.

A statistical correction may well be the biggest rival the club must confront in the near future. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot maintain blasting the ball into the top corner forever.

A Case for Belief

Could it be an alternative path whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures could still rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• The winger might become the performer he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs are set to return from injury, strengthening a sometimes shaky defence.

Perhaps there is in that the potential of a genuine bid, but they surely cannot keep relying on one man.

Savoring the Moment

But then, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable the team would occupy third at Christmas. And certainly earlier this season, no one envisioned Rogers as the year closed would be spearheading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a crucial England player.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed precisely because it seems so surreal. When Rogers faced the Villa faithful when the game ended leading the celebrations, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.