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A mere 60 days ago that the young forward found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed while his coach admonished him over missing a pass in behind. At that point, as Villa went six without a win, doubts remained if his performances were a sign or a cause for Villa's more general malaise.

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

This weekend, in contrast, the sideline response was much more joyous. After the England international drilled in his second strike to reinstate Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician ripped off his jacket, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. Villa were on their way to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning their opening six matches, find themselves just three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Hopefuls?

It remains an exceptionally difficult question to resolve. History, the perceived status of the club, argues against it. Furthermore, they have not been wholly dominant during this run, despite the fact the victories have stacked up.

According to the data, on just two occasions has the team had an xG significantly higher than the other team. For a side which has put together 10 in a row, the Villans seem curiously susceptible – yet right now the tight outcomes are going in their favour.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy seems to be to engage in a shootout with the opposition and then rely on their talisman to bail them out with two precise efforts. This occurred against Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and once more versus the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal came from an exquisite effort, curled right inside the post from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first 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.”

Can It Last?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opponents had a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. Villa have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those matches.

A reversion to average may well be the most significant challenge Villa have to face as the season progresses. Their key man, in all likelihood, will not continue to drilling his shots into the top corner week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is another reality whereby, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs could still return to peak condition.

• The main striker might resume scoring again.
• The attacking talent could transform into the force he resembled in Germany.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to regain fitness, strengthening a sometimes shaky backline.

This could contain the seeds of a title challenge, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on a single individual.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this is a surprise. Few believed Aston Villa would be third at Christmas. And certainly earlier this season, nobody thought Rogers by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a title charge and appearing as an essential England player.

The current run is to be savoured exactly since it seems so surreal. As the hero faced the Villa faithful after the match leading the celebrations, he appeared to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells do not happen often and must be appreciated.