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It was eight weeks prior that the young forward was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed as the Villa manager admonished him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. During that period, with the team endured a six-game winless run, the question was if his performances were a symptom or the reason for Villa's wider issues.

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

This weekend, however, the touchline reaction was far more favourable. After the in-form star drilled in his second strike to reinstate Villa's lead, the boss tore off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and roared. The team marched on to a 10th successive win and despite not winning their opening six games, now sit a mere three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Challengers?

That’s a particularly tough proposition to address. Past precedent, the traditional standing of Villa, argues against it. Furthermore, their performances haven't been entirely convincing this season, even as the positive results have accumulated.

Per statistical analysis, in only two games have Villa registered an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a side that have put together a ten-match winning streak, the Villans appear weirdly vulnerable – however right now the margins are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

The current approach looks like to exchange chances with rivals before hoping Rogers to bail them out with two crisp finishes. This was the case against Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and it happened when facing Manchester United.

His opener stemmed from a brilliant finish, curled just inside the upright from a wide position. His brace-completing goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he seized on a pass from Watkins.

“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 had more shots and more efforts on goal. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all but one of those matches.

A statistical correction could be the greatest opponent the club must confront over the coming weeks. The forward, in all likelihood, will not continue to thrashing the ball into the net's top corner forever.

A Case for Belief

Perhaps there is another reality in which, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players could still find their top level.

• The main striker could start finding the net regularly.
• The attacking talent may rediscover the force he was during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs will eventually return from injury, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable backline.

This could contain the potential for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on one man.

Savoring the Moment

But then, this was unforeseen. Few believed Villa would be in the top three for the holidays. And certainly two months ago, few could imagine the young forward by the end of the year would be spearheading a title charge while looking like a vital player for the national team.

The current run should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As Rogers faced the Villa faithful at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. These runs of form are rare in football and should be relished.