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Just eight weeks prior when the Villa attacker found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered while Unai Emery berated him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. At that point, as Villa went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether his performances were a sign or the source of the team's wider issues.

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

In the latest match, though, the sideline response was far more favourable. When the England international drilled in his second strike to restore the lead for Villa, the boss tore off his winter coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The team marched on to a 10th successive win , despite not winning their opening six games, find themselves a mere three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Title Contenders?

This is a rather hard question to answer. History, the traditional standing of the club, indicates otherwise. Additionally, they've rarely been entirely convincing this season, even as the positive results have accumulated.

According to the data, twice all season have Villa had an xG notably superior than their opponents. For a team which has strung together ten consecutive victories, Villa seem weirdly vulnerable – however right now the tight outcomes are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy seems to be to engage in a shootout with an opponent and then rely on Rogers to rescue them with some precise efforts. It happened against Leeds, it transpired in London, and it happened when facing Manchester United.

The initial strike originated from an exquisite effort, arced just inside the goal frame from a wide position. His brace-completing 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.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Logic says not. In the recent win, the opponents had more shots and more direct attempts. They have won each of their last eight by a single goal. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those games.

A reversion to average might be the most significant challenge Villa will encounter as the season progresses. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot keep on blasting his shots into the net's top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists an alternative path in which, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players might still find their top level.

• The main striker could start adding to his goal tally.
• The winger might become the player he was during his peak.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually come back from the treatment room, fortifying a periodically leaky defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the seeds of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

However, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would be third at Christmas. And certainly earlier this season, nobody thought the midfielder as the year closed would be spearheading a hunt for the title while looking like a vital Three Lions star.

The current run must be cherished for the very reason that it seems so surreal. When Rogers stood in front of the Villa faithful after the match leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.