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It was two months ago that the young forward stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed as Unai Emery scolded him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. Back then, as the club endured a six-game winless run, the question was if his performances were an indicator or the source of Villa's broader struggles.

“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”

This weekend, however, the manager's outburst proved to be far more favourable. As the England international drilled in his brace-sealing goal to reinstate Villa's lead, the boss ripped off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. The team were on their way to a tenth straight victory and having failed to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, find themselves only three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Is This Team Serious Title Contenders?

It remains an exceptionally difficult proposition to answer. History, the traditional standing of this institution, suggests not. Moreover, their performances haven't been completely commanding this season, while the wins have piled up.

As per Opta, in only two games has the side had an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a side which has just won ten consecutive victories, Villa look curiously susceptible – yet at the moment the tight outcomes are going in their favour.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy seems to be to exchange chances with the opposition and wait for Rogers to save the day with two crisp finishes. This occurred at Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and again versus the Red Devils.

His opener originated from an exquisite effort, curled just inside the post from a wide position. The follow-up goal proved to be a slight scruffier version of his first capitalizing on a pass from Watkins.

“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. In the recent win, the opposition managed more efforts and more efforts on goal. The team has won each of their last eight by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those games.

Regression to the mean could be the biggest rival they have to face in the near future. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot keep on thrashing his shots past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

A Case for Belief

Perhaps there is a different scenario where, instead of luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet return to peak condition.

• Ollie Watkins might resume adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent could transform into the performer he was during his peak.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to return from injury, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

Perhaps there is in that the potential of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on one man.

Relishing the Unlikely

But then, this was unforeseen. Few believed Villa would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt back in October, no one envisioned Rogers now would be spearheading a title charge while looking like an essential player for the national team.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed exactly since it seems so surreal. When Rogers faced the home supporters after the match leading the celebrations, he seemed to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.