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Just eight weeks in the past when the Villa attacker was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused as his coach scolded him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. Back then, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear whether his displays were an indicator or the reason for Villa's wider issues.

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

On Sunday, however, the sideline response proved to be much more joyous. As the England international drilled in his second to restore Villa's lead, the boss discarded his coat, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. Villa were on their way to ten wins in a row and despite not winning their opening six games, are somehow just three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.

Are They Serious Hopefuls?

This is an exceptionally difficult proposition to answer. Past precedent, a general sense of this institution, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they have not been wholly dominant this season, even as the victories have piled up.

According to statistical analysis, in only two games have Villa had an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a club which has strung together ten consecutive victories, they look curiously susceptible – but right now the margins are going in their favour.

The Winning Formula

The current approach looks like to exchange chances with an opponent and then rely on their star man to save the day with a couple of clinical strikes. It happened at Leeds, it happened in London, and again when facing the Red Devils.

His opener originated from an exquisite effort, bent precisely inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal acted as a slight scruffier version of his first as he seized on a pass from Watkins.

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

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opponents had more efforts and more shots on target. They have won each of their last eight by a single goal. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those games.

A reversion to average could be the most significant challenge they have to face over the coming weeks. The forward, almost certainly, cannot keep on thrashing the ball into the top corner indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists an alternative path where, instead of results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures could still return to peak condition.

• Ollie Watkins may begin to finding the net regularly.
• The attacking talent might become the performer he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
• The defensive duo are due to regain fitness, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable backline.

This could contain the possibility of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely can continue to depend solely on a single individual.

Relishing the Unlikely

However, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely two months ago, few could imagine the young forward as the year closed would be spearheading a title charge while establishing himself as a vital England player.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. When Rogers faced the North End when the game ended orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.