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Just two months ago when the young forward found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused as Unai Emery berated him for missing a penetrating pass. During that period, as Villa went six without a win, doubts remained whether Rogers' form were an indicator or the source for Villa's wider issues.

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

This weekend, in contrast, the sideline response was entirely decidedly more positive. As the England international curled home his second to reclaim his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician ripped off his jacket, spread his arms and roared. Villa continued to ten wins in a row and after failing to win their opening six fixtures, find themselves a mere three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Is This Team Legitimate Title Contenders?

That’s a particularly tough proposition to answer. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, their performances haven't been wholly dominant during this run, while the positive results have piled up.

According to Opta, on just two occasions has the side posted an expected goals figure notably superior than the opposition. For a team who have put together ten consecutive victories, Villa seem strangely fragile – but at the moment the margins are swinging for them.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy appears to be to exchange chances with the opposition and then rely on Rogers to bail them out with two precise efforts. This was the case away to Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and again versus United.

The initial strike came from a brilliant finish, bent just inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica 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.”

Is It Sustainable?

Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, the opponents had a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those fixtures.

A reversion to average could be the greatest opponent they have to face in the near future. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot maintain thrashing the ball into the net's top corner indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Could it be an alternative path whereby, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures might still rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward might resume adding to his goal tally.
• The winger may rediscover the performer he showed during his peak.
• The defensive duo are set to regain fitness, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable backline.

Maybe within that lies the seeds of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely can continue to depend solely on a single individual.

Savoring the Moment

But then, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Villa would be third at Christmas. And most definitely two months ago, no one envisioned the young forward now would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while looking like a crucial Three Lions star.

This winning streak is to be savoured for the very reason that it seems so surreal. As the hero positioned himself before the Villa faithful when the game ended leading the celebrations, he appeared to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These spells are rare in football and should be relished.