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A mere eight weeks ago that the Villa attacker found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered while Unai Emery scolded him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. Back then, as the club failed to win in six, doubts remained whether his performances were a sign or the reason for the side's broader struggles.

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

In the latest match, however, the manager's outburst proved to be far more favourable. As Rogers curled home his second strike to restore Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician tore off his coat, opened his arms and bellowed. Villa marched on to ten wins in a row and having failed to win any of their first six matches, are somehow only three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Challengers?

That’s an exceptionally difficult question to resolve. The historical record, the traditional standing of the club, suggests not. Additionally, they've rarely been wholly dominant in many games, while the victories have piled up.

Per statistical analysis, twice all season has the side registered an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a club which has just won 10 in a row, they look weirdly vulnerable – however right now the margins are going in their favour.

The Winning Formula

The prevailing tactic seems to be to engage in a shootout with an opponent and then rely on their star man to rescue them with some precise efforts. This was the case against Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and it happened when facing the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal came from an exquisite effort, curled precisely inside the post from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica 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.”

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, Manchester United registered a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those fixtures.

Regression to the mean could be the greatest opponent Villa have to face as the season progresses. Rogers, surely, will not continue to drilling his shots past despairing goalkeepers forever.

A Case for Belief

Could it be an alternative path where, rather than results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures might still find their top level.

• The centre-forward may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent could transform into the force he showed during his peak.
• The defensive duo are set to return from injury, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable backline.

This could contain the possibility of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on one man.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Villa would be in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt back in October, few could imagine the young forward now would be spearheading a title charge while establishing himself as a vital Three Lions star.

The current run is to be savoured exactly since it appears so improbable. When the match-winner faced the North End at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he appeared to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These spells do not happen often and should be relished.