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Just eight weeks ago when the young forward stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed as the Villa manager admonished him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. During that period, as the club failed to win in six, the question was whether his displays were a symptom or the reason for the side's wider issues.

“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”

On Sunday, in contrast, the touchline reaction was far more favourable. As the England international curled home his second to restore his side's advantage, Emery ripped off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The Birmingham club marched on to a 10th successive win and having failed to win any of their first six fixtures, are somehow a mere three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Serious Title Contenders?

This is an exceptionally difficult question to resolve. History, the traditional standing of Villa, suggests not. Furthermore, they have not been wholly dominant in many games, while the wins have stacked up.

As per Opta, in only two games has the side had an xG notably superior than their opponents. For a club who have strung together 10 in a row, the Villans look strangely fragile – but at the moment the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

The prevailing tactic looks like to engage in a shootout with rivals and wait for their star man to save the day with some crisp finishes. It happened against Leeds, it transpired in London, and it happened against Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal stemmed from a brilliant finish, bent right inside the upright from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of the opener capitalizing on a pass from Watkins.

“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, Manchester United managed more efforts and more direct attempts. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those matches.

Regression to the mean might be the greatest opponent the club have to face as the season progresses. Rogers, almost certainly, cannot maintain blasting the ball past despairing goalkeepers forever.

A Case for Belief

Maybe there exists a different scenario whereby, rather than luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs could still return to peak condition.

• The main striker could start adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho might become the force he showed in Germany.
• The injured centre-backs are due to regain fitness, strengthening a sometimes shaky defence.

This could contain the possibility of a genuine bid, but they surely can continue to depend solely on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

However, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would sit in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely two months ago, few could imagine the midfielder now would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title while looking like an essential player for the national team.

This winning streak must be cherished precisely because it feels so unlikely. When Rogers stood in front of the North End at the final whistle leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are rare in football and should be relished.