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It was two months prior when the young forward stood on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while Unai Emery berated him over not reading a pass in behind. At that point, with the team failed to win in six, it wasn't clear if Rogers' form were a sign or the reason for the team's more general malaise.

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

This weekend, though, the touchline reaction proved to be much more joyous. When the in-form star swept in his second to restore his side's advantage, Emery ripped off his coat, opened his arms and bellowed. The team continued to ten wins in a row and despite not winning any of their first six fixtures, now sit only three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Is This Team Serious Title Contenders?

It remains an exceptionally difficult proposition to resolve. The historical record, a general sense of Villa, argues against it. Additionally, they have not been completely commanding in many games, despite the fact the wins have piled up.

According to the data, in only two games has the side registered an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a side who have strung together ten consecutive victories, Villa appear weirdly vulnerable – however right now the tight outcomes are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

The current approach looks like to exchange chances with the opposition and then rely on Rogers to rescue them with two precise efforts. This occurred against Leeds, it happened in London, and it happened when facing Manchester United.

The initial strike originated from a superb shot, arced right inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of the opener as he pounced 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.”

Can It Last?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opponents registered a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those fixtures.

A reversion to average could be the biggest rival Villa have to face over the coming weeks. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot keep on thrashing his shots into the net's top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Could it be a different scenario where, instead of luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet find their top level.

• The main striker could start scoring again.
• The attacking talent could transform into the performer he resembled in Germany.
• The injured centre-backs are due to regain fitness, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the potential of a title challenge, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on one man.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, this was unforeseen. Few believed Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And certainly two months ago, few could imagine the midfielder by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a vital Three Lions star.

This remarkable period must be cherished exactly since it appears so improbable. As the hero stood in front of the home supporters when the game ended leading the celebrations, he seemed to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. Such periods do not happen often and should be relished.