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Just two months ago that the young forward found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed as the Villa manager admonished him for not reading a penetrating pass. At that point, with the team went six without a win, doubts remained whether Rogers' form were a symptom or the source for the team's broader struggles.

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

In the latest match, in contrast, the touchline reaction was much more joyous. After the in-form star curled home his brace-sealing goal to restore the lead for Villa, the boss tore off his coat, spread his arms and roared. Villa continued to ten wins in a row and despite not winning their initial half-dozen matches, find themselves a mere three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Title Contenders?

It remains a rather hard question to answer. The historical record, the traditional standing of Villa, argues against it. Furthermore, they have not been completely commanding this season, while the wins have stacked up.

As per Opta, twice all season have Villa had an xG more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a side that have put together 10 in a row, Villa appear curiously susceptible – however right now the tight outcomes are going in their favour.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy looks like to engage in a shootout with an opponent and then rely on their talisman to save the day with some crisp finishes. This occurred away to Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and again when facing United.

The initial strike came from an exquisite effort, bent precisely inside the post from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal proved to be a slight scruffier version of the opener capitalizing 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?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, Manchester United registered more efforts and more efforts on goal. The team has secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those fixtures.

A reversion to average might be the biggest rival Villa have to face in the near future. Rogers, almost certainly, will not continue to drilling his shots into the net's top corner indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Perhaps there is another reality whereby, rather than results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs could still rediscover their best form.

• The main striker might resume finding the net regularly.
• The winger might become the player he resembled during his peak.
• The defensive duo will eventually return from injury, strengthening a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

This could contain the seeds of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

Yet, this was unforeseen. Few believed Aston Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And certainly earlier this season, no one envisioned Rogers as the year closed would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit and appearing as an essential England player.

This winning streak must be cherished exactly since it feels so unlikely. When the match-winner positioned himself before the home supporters at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.