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Just two months ago when the young forward stood on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered as the Villa manager berated him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. Back then, with the team endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear whether Rogers' form were a symptom or the reason for Villa's broader struggles.

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

This weekend, in contrast, the manager's outburst was decidedly more positive. After Rogers drilled in his brace-sealing goal to restore the lead for Villa, the boss tore off his coat, opened his arms and bellowed. Villa were on their way to ten wins in a row and after failing to win their opening six games, now sit a mere three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Title Contenders?

That’s an exceptionally difficult question to answer. The historical record, the traditional standing of Villa, suggests not. Moreover, they've rarely been completely commanding in many games, while the positive results have stacked up.

According to the data, on just two occasions has the team registered an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a club that have just won 10 in a row, Villa appear weirdly vulnerable – but right now the fine lines are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy seems to be to trade blows with an opponent and then rely on their talisman to save the day with some precise efforts. This was the case away to Leeds, it transpired in London, and again versus the Red Devils.

His opener came from a brilliant finish, bent right inside the upright from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal proved to be a slight scruffier version of the opener as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.

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

Is It Sustainable?

Logic says not. During the latest victory, the opposition registered more shots and more shots on target. They have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those matches.

A reversion to average might be the most significant challenge Villa must confront as the season progresses. Their key man, surely, cannot keep on drilling the ball past despairing goalkeepers forever.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists another reality in which, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs might still return to peak condition.

• Ollie Watkins may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent might become the force he resembled in Germany.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to return from injury, strengthening a periodically leaky defensive unit.

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

Savoring the Moment

However, nobody expected this. Few believed the team would sit third at Christmas. And certainly earlier this season, few could imagine Rogers as the year closed would be leading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a vital player for the national team.

This winning streak must be cherished for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. When the hero stood in front of the North End after the match orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These spells are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.