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A mere eight weeks in the past that the Villa attacker found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered as his coach berated him over not reading a penetrating pass. Back then, with the team went six without a win, doubts remained if his performances were a symptom or the source of the side's wider issues.

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

This weekend, though, the touchline reaction was much more joyous. As the England international drilled in his second to reinstate his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician discarded his coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club marched on to a 10th successive win , despite not winning any of their first six matches, find themselves a mere three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Title Contenders?

This is an exceptionally difficult proposition to address. Past precedent, the perceived status of the club, suggests not. Moreover, they've rarely been wholly dominant during this run, even as the victories have accumulated.

Per Opta, in only two games has the team had an xG significantly higher than their opponents. For a team which has strung together 10 in a row, the Villans seem weirdly vulnerable – but right now the tight outcomes are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

The current approach looks like to exchange chances with rivals before hoping their star man to bail them out with some crisp finishes. This was the case away to Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and again against Manchester United.

The initial strike stemmed from an exquisite effort, curled just inside the upright from the corner of the box. For his second acted as a slightly less clean iteration 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.”

Can It Last?

Logic says not. During the latest victory, Manchester United managed more efforts and more direct attempts. They have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those games.

A statistical correction could be the greatest opponent they must confront in the near future. Their key man, in all likelihood, will not continue to blasting the football past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

A Case for Belief

Perhaps there is another reality in which, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet find their top level.

• The centre-forward could start adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho might become the force he was during his peak.
• The defensive duo will eventually come back from the treatment room, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defence.

This could contain the possibility of a genuine bid, but they surely cannot keep relying on one man.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Villa would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And certainly two months ago, few could imagine the young forward as the year closed would be leading a championship pursuit while looking like a vital player for the national team.

The current run should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As Rogers stood in front of the home supporters when the game ended orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are rare in football and must be appreciated.