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Just 60 days prior when the young forward found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered while Unai Emery scolded him for missing a pass in behind. Back then, with the team went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether his displays were a sign or the source for the side's more general malaise.

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

On Sunday, in contrast, the touchline reaction was decidedly more positive. As the England international swept in his second to reclaim the lead for Villa, the boss discarded his jacket, opened his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club were on their way to a tenth straight victory and having failed to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, find themselves just three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.

Is This Team Legitimate Challengers?

This is a particularly tough question to resolve. Past precedent, the traditional standing of this institution, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, they have not been entirely convincing this season, despite the fact the victories have piled up.

Per the data, in only two games have Villa had an xG significantly higher than the opposition. For a club which has strung together a ten-match winning streak, they look strangely fragile – however right now the margins are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy looks like to trade blows with rivals and then rely on their star man to rescue them with two precise efforts. This occurred against Leeds, it happened in London, and it happened when facing the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal came from a superb shot, bent right inside the goal frame from a wide position. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of goal number one as he seized on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“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. In the recent win, the opposition had more efforts and more efforts on goal. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those matches.

Regression to the mean might be the biggest rival the club will encounter in the near future. Their key man, surely, cannot keep on thrashing the football into the net's top corner indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Could it be a different scenario whereby, instead of results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players could still rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins may begin to finding the net regularly.
• The attacking talent might become the player he resembled in Germany.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually regain fitness, strengthening a sometimes shaky defence.

This could contain the possibility for a sustained push, but they surely cannot keep relying on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

Yet, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would be third at Christmas. And most definitely earlier this season, few could imagine Rogers as the year closed would be spearheading a title charge while establishing himself as a crucial player for the national team.

The current run should be enjoyed exactly since it seems so surreal. As Rogers faced the Villa faithful at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he appeared to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. These runs of form are rare in football and should be relished.