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Just two months in the past that the young forward was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while Unai Emery admonished him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. Back then, with the team failed to win in six, the question was whether Rogers' form were an indicator or a cause for the side's broader struggles.

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

This weekend, though, the sideline response proved to be decidedly more positive. When the England international swept in his second to restore Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician discarded his jacket, spread his arms and roared. The team marched on to a tenth straight victory and having failed to win any of their first six matches, are somehow just three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Title Contenders?

This is an exceptionally difficult proposition to address. Past precedent, a general sense of this institution, indicates otherwise. Additionally, their performances haven't been wholly dominant during this run, despite the fact the victories have accumulated.

Per Opta, on just two occasions has the side had an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a side which has just won ten consecutive victories, the Villans appear curiously susceptible – yet right now the tight outcomes are going in their favour.

The Reliant Strategy

The prevailing tactic seems to be to engage in a shootout with rivals before hoping their talisman to bail them out with a couple of clinical strikes. This occurred away to Leeds, it transpired in London, and once more when facing Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal came from an exquisite effort, curled just inside the goal frame from a wide position. The follow-up goal was essentially a slightly less clean iteration of his first as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.

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

Can It Last?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, Manchester United had a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all except one of those matches.

A reversion to average could be the greatest opponent they have to face over the coming weeks. Rogers, surely, will not continue to blasting the ball into the net's top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is another reality whereby, rather than results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet return to peak condition.

• Ollie Watkins might resume finding the net regularly.
• The winger might become the player he was in Germany.
• The defensive duo will eventually regain fitness, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable defence.

This could contain the possibility of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on a single individual.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, nobody expected this. Nobody thought Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And certainly back in October, nobody thought Rogers as the year closed would be leading a hunt for the title and appearing as a vital Three Lions star.

The current run should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As the hero faced the North End at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he appeared to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.