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Just two months ago that the young forward found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered while Unai Emery admonished him for missing a pass in behind. Back then, with the team went six without a win, it wasn't clear if Rogers' form were an indicator or a cause of Villa's broader struggles.

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

On Sunday, though, the touchline reaction proved to be far more favourable. When the England international swept in his second to reinstate his side's advantage, the boss tore off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and roared. The team were on their way to a tenth straight victory , after failing to win their initial half-dozen games, now sit only three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Title Contenders?

That’s an exceptionally difficult query to address. History, the traditional standing of this institution, indicates otherwise. Moreover, their performances haven't been completely commanding in many games, even as the wins have accumulated.

According to the data, on just two occasions have Villa posted an expected goals figure significantly higher than the opposition. For a side that have strung together a ten-match winning streak, Villa seem weirdly vulnerable – however right now the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Reliant Strategy

The prevailing tactic appears to be to engage in a shootout with an opponent and then rely on Rogers to save the day with a couple of clinical strikes. This occurred away to Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and it happened against the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal came from a brilliant finish, arced right inside the upright from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal proved to be 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.”

Can It Last?

Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, the opponents registered more shots and more shots on target. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those fixtures.

A statistical correction may well be the biggest rival Villa have to face over the coming weeks. Their key man, in all likelihood, will not continue to blasting his shots into the net's top corner forever.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be another reality where, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures might still find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins might resume adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the player he was in Germany.
• The injured centre-backs are due to return from injury, fortifying a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on one man.

Savoring the Moment

But then, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Aston Villa would sit in the top three for the holidays. And certainly two months ago, nobody thought the young forward now would be leading a title charge while establishing himself as a vital England player.

The current run must be cherished precisely because it seems so surreal. When Rogers positioned himself before the Villa faithful at the final whistle orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.