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Just two months prior when the Villa attacker found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed as Unai Emery berated him for not reading a penetrating pass. At that point, as the club went six without a win, it wasn't clear if his performances were an indicator or the source for the team's more general malaise.

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

This weekend, however, the manager's outburst proved to be much more joyous. When the England international drilled in his second strike to reclaim Villa's lead, Emery ripped off his coat, opened his arms and roared. The team were on their way to ten wins in a row and after failing to win their opening six fixtures, find themselves just three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.

Are They Serious Title Contenders?

That’s a rather hard query to answer. History, the traditional standing of Villa, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they've rarely been completely commanding this season, while the positive results have accumulated.

As per the data, twice all season have Villa had an xG significantly higher than their opponents. For a team that have strung together ten consecutive victories, Villa appear weirdly vulnerable – however right now the tight outcomes are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy looks like to trade blows with the opposition before hoping their star man to save the day with two precise efforts. This was the case at Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and again against Manchester United.

His opener came from an exquisite effort, arced precisely inside the post from a wide position. For his second acted as a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.

“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. In the recent win, Manchester United managed more efforts and more shots on target. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all except one of those games.

A reversion to average could be the greatest opponent the club have to face over the coming weeks. The forward, in all likelihood, will not continue to thrashing his shots into the net's top corner forever.

A Case for Belief

Could it be a different scenario whereby, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players may yet rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward may begin to finding the net regularly.
• The winger may rediscover the performer he resembled in Germany.
• The defensive duo are set to regain fitness, strengthening a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

This could contain the potential for a sustained push, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on one man.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this is a surprise. Nobody thought the team would be in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely two months ago, few could imagine the young forward now would be spearheading a hunt for the title and appearing as a crucial Three Lions star.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When the hero faced the Villa faithful after the match leading the celebrations, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These spells do not happen often and should be relished.