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A mere eight weeks ago that the young forward stood on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while the Villa manager berated him over not reading a pass in behind. During that period, as the club went six without a win, the question was if Rogers' form were a sign or the source of 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 manager's outburst was entirely far more favourable. As the in-form star drilled in his second to reinstate Villa's lead, Emery discarded his winter coat, threw his arms wide and bellowed. Villa continued to a 10th successive win and after failing to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, find themselves a mere three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Title Contenders?

That’s an exceptionally difficult question to address. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, argues against it. Moreover, they have not been completely commanding this season, despite the fact the victories have accumulated.

Per the data, twice all season have Villa had an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a team which has just won ten consecutive victories, the Villans appear strangely fragile – however currently the tight outcomes are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy appears to be to engage in a shootout with the opposition before hoping Rogers to save the day with some precise efforts. This was the case away to Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and again when facing United.

His opener originated from a superb shot, bent precisely inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. For his second acted as a slight scruffier version of the opener capitalizing on a pass from Watkins.

“Perhaps Rogers’ right foot is becoming like Arjen Robben’s left: just because you know he’s going to whip the ball into the top corner doesn’t mean you can stop him.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, Manchester United registered a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. The defence has been breached in all but one of those fixtures.

A reversion to average may well be the most significant challenge Villa must confront over the coming weeks. The forward, almost certainly, will not continue to thrashing the ball past despairing goalkeepers forever.

A Case for Belief

Could it be another reality in which, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures might still return to peak condition.

• The main striker might resume finding the net regularly.
• The attacking talent could transform into the performer he was during his peak.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to regain fitness, strengthening a periodically leaky backline.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on a single individual.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, this was unforeseen. Few believed Aston Villa would be third at Christmas. And without a doubt two months ago, few could imagine the midfielder by the end of the year would be leading a title charge and appearing as an essential England player.

The current run should be enjoyed exactly since it feels so unlikely. As Rogers stood in front of the Villa faithful when the game ended conducting the cheers, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. Such periods are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.