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Just eight weeks in the past that the young forward was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while the Villa manager scolded him over failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. At that point, as Villa failed to win in six, it wasn't clear if his displays were a symptom or the reason for the team's wider issues.

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

On Sunday, in contrast, the touchline reaction was entirely far more favourable. When the in-form star drilled in his second to restore Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician tore off his jacket, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club were on their way to ten wins in a row and despite not winning their opening six games, find themselves just three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Serious Challengers?

It remains a rather hard question to address. The historical record, the traditional standing of the club, suggests not. Furthermore, their performances haven't been wholly dominant in many games, despite the fact the victories have stacked up.

Per Opta, twice all season has the side had an xG significantly higher than the opposition. For a side which has put together 10 in a row, Villa look weirdly vulnerable – however right now the fine lines are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

The current approach looks like to trade blows with an opponent and then rely on Rogers to bail them out with a couple of clinical strikes. This occurred away to Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and again when facing the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal originated from a brilliant finish, arced right inside the post from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal acted as a slight scruffier version of the opener capitalizing on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”

Can It Last?

Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, the opponents registered a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. They have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all except one of those games.

A statistical correction could be the greatest opponent they must confront over the coming weeks. The forward, almost certainly, will not continue to blasting the ball into the net's top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is a different scenario whereby, rather than results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players might still return to peak condition.

• Ollie Watkins might resume scoring again.
• The attacking talent might become the force he was in Germany.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to regain fitness, bolstering a periodically leaky defensive unit.

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

Enjoying the Ride

But then, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt back in October, no one envisioned Rogers as the year closed would be spearheading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as an essential player for the national team.

This remarkable period is to be savoured precisely because it feels so unlikely. As the hero faced the home supporters when the game ended leading the celebrations, he seemed to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These runs of form do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.