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It was 60 days prior that the Villa attacker was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered while his coach scolded him over not reading a pass in behind. At that point, as the club failed to win in six, doubts remained if his displays were a symptom or a cause for Villa's more general malaise.

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

This weekend, however, the sideline response was far more favourable. When Rogers drilled in his second to reclaim the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician tore off his jacket, spread his arms and bellowed. Villa were on their way to a 10th successive win , having failed to win their opening six games, now sit just three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Is This Team Genuine Title Contenders?

It remains an exceptionally difficult proposition to address. History, the perceived status of the club, indicates otherwise. Moreover, their performances haven't been completely commanding in many games, despite the fact the victories have accumulated.

Per statistical analysis, twice all season has the team posted an expected goals figure significantly higher than the opposition. For a side who have just won 10 in a row, they appear curiously susceptible – yet right now the tight outcomes are going in their favour.

The Winning Formula

The current approach looks like to exchange chances with the opposition and wait for their talisman to rescue them with a couple of precise efforts. This occurred against Leeds, it happened in London, and it happened versus Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal originated from a brilliant finish, bent right inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of his first as he seized on a pass from Watkins.

“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, Manchester United registered more shots and more direct attempts. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those fixtures.

A reversion to average may well be the biggest rival the club must confront over the coming weeks. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot maintain thrashing the ball into the top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is a different scenario whereby, rather than luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players might still find their top level.

• The main striker may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• The winger may rediscover the force he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs will eventually return from injury, strengthening a periodically leaky defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the possibility of a genuine bid, but they surely can continue to depend solely on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

Yet, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely back in October, nobody thought the young forward as the year closed would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while looking like an essential England player.

The current run must be cherished precisely because it feels so unlikely. When the match-winner positioned himself before the Villa faithful after the match conducting the cheers, it was clear to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These spells are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.