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It was two months ago that the young forward stood on the Sunderland turf, looking confused as Unai Emery berated him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. At that point, with the team endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained if his performances were a symptom or a cause of the team's wider issues.

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

In the latest match, though, the manager's outburst was entirely decidedly more positive. When the in-form star curled home his brace-sealing goal to reinstate Villa's lead, Emery ripped off his jacket, threw his arms wide and roared. The team continued to ten wins in a row , despite not winning their opening six games, are somehow only three points adrift of table-toppers Arsenal.

Is This Team Legitimate Challengers?

It remains a particularly tough proposition to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of Villa, suggests not. Furthermore, they've rarely been completely commanding during this run, despite the fact the positive results have stacked up.

As per statistical analysis, twice all season has the side registered an xG significantly higher than their opponents. For a club who have strung together a ten-match winning streak, the Villans look curiously susceptible – yet at the moment the margins are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy looks like to engage in a shootout with the opposition and wait for their talisman to rescue them with some precise efforts. This was the case against Leeds, it transpired in London, and it happened against the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal stemmed from a superb shot, bent just inside the post from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.

“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. Against United, Manchester United registered more shots and more shots on target. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in all but one of those matches.

A statistical correction may well be the biggest rival Villa will encounter as the season progresses. Rogers, almost certainly, cannot maintain blasting the ball into the top corner forever.

Reasons for Optimism

Maybe there exists another reality whereby, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players could still rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins could start scoring again.
• The winger could transform into the force he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs are due to return from injury, strengthening a periodically leaky defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the possibility of a genuine bid, but they surely can continue to depend solely on one man.

Relishing the Unlikely

However, this is a surprise. Few believed the team would be in the top three for the holidays. And certainly back in October, no one envisioned the midfielder now would be spearheading a hunt for the title while looking like a vital player for the national team.

This remarkable period is to be savoured precisely because it seems so surreal. When Rogers stood in front of the North End when the game ended leading the celebrations, he appeared to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These spells are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.