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It was eight weeks in the past that the young forward was standing on the Sunderland turf, looking confused as the Villa manager scolded him over missing a pass in behind. Back then, as the club failed to win in six, doubts remained if his performances were an indicator or the reason for Villa's wider issues.

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

In the latest match, in contrast, the touchline reaction proved to be much more joyous. When Rogers drilled in his second strike to restore Villa's lead, Emery ripped off his jacket, spread his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club were on their way to a 10th successive win and despite not winning any of their first six matches, are somehow only three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.

Is This Team Legitimate Title Contenders?

That’s an exceptionally difficult question to resolve. The historical record, a general sense of this institution, suggests not. Moreover, they've rarely been completely commanding this season, despite the fact the wins have piled up.

According to statistical analysis, twice all season has the side had an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a team that have just won 10 in a row, they look weirdly vulnerable – yet currently the tight outcomes are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy seems to be to trade blows with rivals and wait for their talisman to save the day with two crisp finishes. This was the case away to Leeds, it occurred in London, and it happened when facing Manchester United.

His opener originated from a superb shot, arced just inside the upright from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal acted as a slightly less clean iteration of his first as he seized on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

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

How Long Can This Continue?

Logic says not. In the recent win, the opposition managed a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. They have won each of their last eight by a single goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those games.

Regression to the mean may well be the greatest opponent Villa will encounter as the season progresses. The forward, surely, cannot maintain blasting his shots past despairing goalkeepers forever.

Potential for Growth

Could it be another reality where, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs might still rediscover their best form.

• The main striker could start adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the player he resembled in Germany.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually return from injury, bolstering a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the potential for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on a single individual.

Enjoying the Ride

However, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would sit in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely back in October, no one envisioned Rogers as the year closed would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while establishing himself as an essential Three Lions star.

This winning streak must be cherished exactly since it seems so surreal. As the match-winner faced the Villa faithful after the match conducting the cheers, it was clear to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These spells do not happen often and must be appreciated.