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A mere two months prior that the young forward was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while the Villa manager scolded him for not reading a penetrating pass. During that period, as the club failed to win in six, doubts remained if his performances were an indicator or the source of Villa's broader struggles.

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

In the latest match, in contrast, the sideline response was far more favourable. As Rogers swept in his second to reclaim the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician ripped off his jacket, threw his arms wide and roared. The Birmingham club marched on to ten wins in a row , after failing to win their opening six games, are somehow a mere three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Is This Team Genuine Hopefuls?

This is a particularly tough question to answer. The historical record, the perceived status of Villa, suggests not. Additionally, they have not been completely commanding during this run, even as the wins have accumulated.

As per statistical analysis, in only two games has the team posted an xG notably superior than their opponents. For a team which has put together 10 in a row, the Villans look curiously susceptible – yet at the moment the margins are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic seems to be to trade blows with an opponent and wait for their talisman to save the day with two crisp finishes. This occurred away to Leeds, it transpired in London, and again when facing the Red Devils.

His opener stemmed from an exquisite effort, curled precisely inside the goal frame from a wide position. For his second was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first 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.”

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opposition managed more shots and more efforts on goal. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all but one of those matches.

A statistical correction could be the most significant challenge they will encounter over the coming weeks. Rogers, surely, will not continue to blasting the ball past despairing goalkeepers forever.

A Case for Belief

Perhaps there is an alternative path in which, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players could still rediscover their best form.

• The main striker could start scoring again.
• The attacking talent might become the force he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs are set to return from injury, strengthening a sometimes shaky backline.

This could contain the seeds of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on a single individual.

Enjoying the Ride

Yet, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would be third at Christmas. And certainly earlier this season, nobody thought Rogers by the end of the year would be leading a hunt for the title while looking like a vital England player.

The current run should be enjoyed for the very reason that it seems so surreal. When the match-winner faced the North End when the game ended orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. Such periods are rare in football and must be appreciated.