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It was two months in the past that the young forward found himself on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed while Unai Emery scolded him over missing a pass in behind. During that period, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear if his performances were a symptom or a cause of the team's broader struggles.

“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”

This weekend, though, the sideline response was much more joyous. After Rogers curled home his second strike to reinstate his side's advantage, the boss discarded his winter coat, threw his arms wide and bellowed. Villa were on their way to a 10th successive win and having failed to win their opening six fixtures, are somehow just three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.

Is This Team Legitimate Challengers?

It remains a rather hard query to address. The historical record, the traditional standing of this institution, argues against it. Furthermore, their performances haven't been entirely convincing this season, even as the victories have stacked up.

As per the data, in only two games has the team posted an xG significantly higher than the other team. For a side that have strung together 10 in a row, the Villans look curiously susceptible – yet right now the tight outcomes are swinging for them.

The Reliant Strategy

The prevailing tactic looks like to engage in a shootout with rivals before hoping their star man to save the day with some clinical strikes. This was the case against Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and once more against Manchester United.

His opener came from a brilliant finish, arced precisely inside the post from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal proved to be a slight scruffier version of the opener as he pounced 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?

Logic says not. Against United, the opposition registered more shots and more efforts on goal. The team has secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in all except one of those matches.

A reversion to average could be the most significant challenge they will encounter in the near future. Their key man, almost certainly, cannot keep on drilling the football into the top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists a different scenario whereby, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs could still return to peak condition.

• Ollie Watkins may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• The winger could transform into the performer he was in Germany.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to return from injury, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the possibility of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on one man.

Savoring the Moment

However, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable the team would occupy third at Christmas. And most definitely two months ago, no one envisioned Rogers as the year closed would be spearheading a title charge while looking like an essential England player.

This remarkable period must be cherished exactly since it seems so surreal. When the match-winner faced the Villa faithful when the game ended orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.