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Just two months ago when the young forward was standing on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered as Unai Emery scolded him over missing a penetrating pass. At that point, with the team endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained if his displays were a sign or the reason for Villa's broader struggles.

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

On Sunday, in contrast, the sideline response was far more favourable. When Rogers drilled in his second to reclaim his side's advantage, the boss tore off his jacket, spread his arms and roared. Villa continued to a tenth straight victory , after failing to win their initial half-dozen games, now sit only three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Title Contenders?

This is a rather hard question to resolve. Past precedent, a general sense of Villa, indicates otherwise. Additionally, they have not been completely commanding during this run, while the positive results have accumulated.

Per statistical analysis, in only two games has the side posted an xG more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a side that have put together ten consecutive victories, they appear strangely fragile – yet currently the tight outcomes are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy looks like to exchange chances with an opponent before hoping their talisman to save the day with a couple of precise efforts. This occurred at Leeds, it occurred in London, and once more when facing United.

His opener originated from a brilliant finish, arced precisely inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.

“Perhaps Rogers’ right foot is becoming like Arjen Robben’s left: just because you know he’s going to whip the ball into the top corner doesn’t mean you can stop him.”

Is It Sustainable?

Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, the opposition had more shots and more direct attempts. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those fixtures.

A reversion to average may well be the biggest rival Villa have to face over the coming weeks. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot maintain blasting the ball into the top corner week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists an alternative path whereby, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players may yet find their top level.

• The centre-forward could start finding the net regularly.
• The attacking talent may rediscover the performer he resembled in Germany.
• The defensive duo are due to regain fitness, strengthening a periodically leaky backline.

Perhaps there is in that the potential for a sustained push, but they surely cannot keep relying on one man.

Savoring the Moment

But then, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Villa would be in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt two months ago, few could imagine the midfielder now would be leading a championship pursuit and appearing as a vital England player.

This winning streak should be enjoyed exactly since it feels so unlikely. When the hero stood in front of the Villa faithful when the game ended orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. Such periods are rare in football and should be relished.