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Just eight weeks ago when the young forward found himself on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while Unai Emery scolded him for missing a pass in behind. At that point, as the club went six without a win, it wasn't clear if his performances were an indicator or a cause of Villa's broader struggles.

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

This weekend, however, the touchline reaction was much more joyous. As Rogers curled home his second to reinstate his side's advantage, the boss ripped off his jacket, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club marched on to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win their initial half-dozen matches, find themselves only three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Challengers?

It remains a particularly tough question to address. History, the perceived status of this institution, argues against it. Moreover, they've rarely been entirely convincing this season, while the wins have accumulated.

According to the data, in only two games have Villa registered an expected goals figure significantly higher than their opponents. For a team which has put together a ten-match winning streak, Villa seem curiously susceptible – however at the moment the tight outcomes are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

The current approach seems to be to exchange chances with rivals before hoping Rogers to bail them out with a couple of clinical strikes. This was the case away to Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and again against United.

The initial strike came from an exquisite effort, arced right inside the upright from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of his first as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.

“Perhaps Rogers’ right foot is becoming like Arjen Robben’s left: just because you know he’s going to whip the ball into the top corner doesn’t mean you can stop him.”

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opposition registered more efforts and more shots on target. Villa have won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all except one of those fixtures.

A statistical correction may well be the most significant challenge they must confront in the near future. The forward, surely, will not continue to blasting the ball into the top corner indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Could it be another reality whereby, rather than results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures might still rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins could start finding the net regularly.
• The winger may rediscover the player he showed in Germany.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to return from injury, fortifying a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the possibility of a genuine bid, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on one man.

Savoring the Moment

However, this was unforeseen. Few believed the team would sit in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt earlier this season, few could imagine the midfielder now would be spearheading a hunt for the title and appearing as a vital England player.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As Rogers stood in front of the home supporters when the game ended conducting the cheers, it was clear to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are rare in football and must be appreciated.