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A mere eight weeks in the past that the Villa attacker stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered as the Villa manager scolded him for missing a penetrating pass. At that point, as Villa failed to win in six, doubts remained whether his displays were an indicator or the reason of Villa's broader struggles.

“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”

This weekend, though, the manager's outburst proved to be decidedly more positive. When the England international drilled in his second to reinstate the lead for Villa, the boss tore off his coat, threw his arms wide and roared. The team were on their way to ten wins in a row and having failed to win any of their first six games, find themselves just three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Challengers?

That’s a rather hard question to address. The historical record, the traditional standing of this institution, suggests not. Additionally, their performances haven't been wholly dominant in many games, despite the fact the positive results have piled up.

According to the data, in only two games have Villa registered an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a side who have put together 10 in a row, Villa look strangely fragile – but currently the margins are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic looks like to trade blows with rivals and then rely on their talisman to save the day with a couple of clinical strikes. It happened against Leeds, it transpired in London, and again when facing Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal stemmed from a superb shot, arced precisely inside the post from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal proved to be a slight scruffier version of the opener as he seized on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

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

Can It Last?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, Manchester United registered a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those matches.

A reversion to average could be the most significant challenge Villa will encounter 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 where, rather than luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players may yet return to peak condition.

• The main striker might resume finding the net regularly.
• The attacking talent could transform into the performer he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs are due to regain fitness, strengthening a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the potential for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on a single individual.

Enjoying the Ride

But then, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Villa would be in the top three for the holidays. And certainly earlier this season, few could imagine the young forward now would be at the forefront of a title charge while establishing himself as an essential Three Lions star.

This remarkable period is to be savoured exactly since it appears so improbable. When Rogers faced the Villa faithful at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he appeared to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.