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A mere two months ago when the young forward stood on the Sunderland turf, looking confused as Unai Emery berated him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. At that point, as the club endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained whether his performances were an indicator or the reason for Villa's wider issues.

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

In the latest match, however, the sideline response proved to be far more favourable. After the England international drilled in his second to reinstate Villa's lead, the boss discarded his winter coat, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The Birmingham club were on their way to a 10th successive win and having failed to win any of their first six fixtures, are somehow just three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Title Contenders?

That’s a particularly tough query to answer. Past precedent, a general sense of this institution, suggests not. Furthermore, they've rarely been entirely convincing during this run, despite the fact the wins have stacked up.

As per the data, twice all season have Villa had an xG notably superior than their opponents. For a side which has put together a ten-match winning streak, the Villans look curiously susceptible – yet right now the fine lines are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

The prevailing tactic seems to be to trade blows with rivals and wait for their talisman to save the day with some precise efforts. It happened away to Leeds, it occurred in London, and once more versus Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal originated from an exquisite effort, bent just inside the goal frame from a wide position. His brace-completing goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.

“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Logic says not. During the latest victory, Manchester United managed more shots and more shots on target. They have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those games.

A statistical correction may well be the biggest rival Villa have to face in the near future. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot keep on blasting the football into the net's top corner week in, week out.

Reasons for Optimism

Perhaps there is an alternative path whereby, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet return to peak condition.

• The centre-forward might resume finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho might become the player he was in Germany.
• The injured centre-backs are set to return from injury, fortifying a sometimes shaky defence.

Maybe within that lies the possibility of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.

Relishing the Unlikely

But then, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And certainly earlier this season, few could imagine the young forward by the end of the year would be leading a hunt for the title and appearing as a vital Three Lions star.

The current run must be cherished precisely because it appears so improbable. When Rogers stood in front of the Villa faithful at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. These runs of form are rare in football and must be appreciated.