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A mere 60 days prior that the Villa attacker stood on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered while his coach berated him for failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. Back then, as the club endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear whether his performances were a symptom or the reason of the side's more general malaise.

“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”

In the latest match, however, the sideline response was entirely decidedly more positive. As the England international swept in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician ripped off his jacket, opened his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club continued to a 10th successive win and after failing to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, find themselves only three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Title Contenders?

This is a particularly tough question to address. Past precedent, the traditional standing of this institution, argues against it. Moreover, they've rarely been completely commanding during this run, despite the fact the positive results have piled up.

As per Opta, in only two games has the team registered an xG significantly higher than the other team. For a club who have just won a ten-match winning streak, Villa appear curiously susceptible – yet currently the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Winning Formula

The prevailing tactic appears to be to exchange chances with rivals before hoping Rogers to rescue them with some clinical strikes. This occurred at Leeds, it transpired in London, and once more versus United.

His opener stemmed from a brilliant finish, curled right inside the goal frame from a wide position. The follow-up goal acted as a slightly less clean iteration of the opener as he seized on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“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. Against United, the opposition had a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. They have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those fixtures.

A reversion to average might be the biggest rival Villa will encounter over the coming weeks. The forward, almost certainly, will not continue to blasting the football into the net's top corner indefinitely.

A Case for Belief

Perhaps there is a different scenario whereby, rather than luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures might still rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins could start scoring again.
• The attacking talent could transform into the force he was in Germany.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to come back from the treatment room, fortifying a periodically leaky defence.

This could contain the possibility of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on a single individual.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, this was unforeseen. Few believed Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And certainly back in October, few could imagine Rogers as the year closed would be spearheading a hunt for the title while looking like an essential Three Lions star.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed for the very reason that it seems so surreal. As the match-winner positioned himself before the Villa faithful at the final whistle orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.