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It was 60 days ago that the Villa attacker was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed while Unai Emery berated him over missing a through-ball. At that point, as Villa failed to win in six, it wasn't clear whether his performances were a symptom or the source for the side's more general malaise.

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

This weekend, in contrast, the touchline reaction was entirely far more favourable. As the in-form star swept in his brace-sealing goal to reinstate his side's advantage, Emery ripped off his coat, opened his arms and bellowed. Villa marched on to ten wins in a row and after failing to win their initial half-dozen matches, are somehow only three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Challengers?

It remains an exceptionally difficult query to address. The historical record, the traditional standing of this institution, suggests not. Furthermore, they have not been wholly dominant during this run, despite the fact the victories have accumulated.

Per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the side registered an xG significantly higher than the opposition. For a side that have put together ten consecutive victories, they appear weirdly vulnerable – but at the moment the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy appears to be to trade blows with an opponent and then rely on their talisman to save the day with two precise efforts. This was the case away to Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and once more when facing United.

Rogers' first goal originated from an exquisite effort, curled just inside the upright from a wide position. For his second proved to be a somewhat messier replica of goal number one 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?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, Manchester United managed more shots and more efforts on goal. Villa have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those matches.

A statistical correction may well be the biggest rival they will encounter as the season progresses. Their key man, almost certainly, will not continue to drilling the ball into the top corner indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is a different scenario where, instead of luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players might still return to peak condition.

• The centre-forward may begin to finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho could transform into the player he showed during his peak.
• The defensive duo are due to return from injury, fortifying a periodically leaky defensive unit.

This could contain the seeds of a genuine bid, but they surely can continue to depend solely on a single individual.

Enjoying the Ride

Yet, nobody expected this. Nobody thought Aston Villa would be in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt two months ago, few could imagine the young forward by the end of the year would be spearheading a title charge while establishing himself as a vital England player.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed precisely because it seems so surreal. As the match-winner faced the home supporters at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.