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Just 60 days ago when the young forward was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed as his coach scolded him for not reading a penetrating pass. At that point, with the team endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear whether his displays were an indicator or the reason of Villa's more general malaise.

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

This weekend, in contrast, the touchline reaction was entirely far more favourable. After the in-form star curled home his second strike to reclaim his side's advantage, the boss ripped off his winter coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club continued to ten wins in a row , despite not winning any of their first six fixtures, now sit only three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Title Contenders?

It remains a rather hard question to address. The historical record, the traditional standing of the club, argues against it. Additionally, they have not been entirely convincing in many games, despite the fact the victories have stacked up.

According to statistical analysis, in only two games has the side registered an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a club that have just won ten consecutive victories, Villa look curiously susceptible – but right now the tight outcomes are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

The current approach looks like to exchange chances with the opposition before hoping their star man to save the day with two crisp finishes. It happened at Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and again when facing Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal came from a brilliant finish, curled right inside the post from a wide position. His brace-completing goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first 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.”

Can It Last?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opposition had more efforts and more shots on target. They have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all except one of those matches.

A reversion to average may well be the most significant challenge they must confront as the season progresses. Rogers, almost certainly, will not continue to thrashing the ball into the top corner forever.

Reasons for Optimism

Maybe there exists a different scenario whereby, instead of results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs may yet rediscover their best form.

• The main striker could start scoring again.
• Jadon Sancho might become the player he was in Germany.
• The injured centre-backs are set to come back from the treatment room, bolstering a periodically leaky defensive unit.

Perhaps there is in that the potential of a title challenge, but they surely can continue to depend solely on a single individual.

Relishing the Unlikely

But then, this was unforeseen. Few believed Aston Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And certainly back in October, nobody thought Rogers as the year closed would be spearheading a title charge while looking like a vital player for the national team.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed precisely because it feels so unlikely. When the hero stood in front of the Villa faithful after the match orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.