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It was 60 days ago that the young forward was standing on the Sunderland turf, looking confused as his coach scolded him for missing a penetrating pass. Back then, as the club failed to win in six, it wasn't clear if his displays were an indicator or the reason of Villa's wider issues.

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

On Sunday, however, the sideline response was entirely far more favourable. After Rogers curled home his brace-sealing goal to reinstate his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician discarded his jacket, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. Villa were on their way to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win any of their first six matches, find themselves just three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Title Contenders?

This is a particularly tough proposition to address. The historical record, the perceived status of this institution, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they've rarely been entirely convincing in many games, even as the positive results have stacked up.

As per Opta, twice all season have Villa had an xG notably superior than their opponents. For a team who have put together ten consecutive victories, they appear curiously susceptible – however at the moment the tight outcomes are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy looks like to exchange chances with the opposition and then rely on their star man to save the day with some crisp finishes. This occurred away to Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and it happened versus Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal originated from a brilliant finish, curled precisely inside the post from a wide position. For his second was essentially a slightly less clean iteration of the opener as he seized on a pass from Watkins.

“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opposition registered more shots and more efforts on goal. They have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all except one of those matches.

A reversion to average may well be the most significant challenge the club will encounter over the coming weeks. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot maintain thrashing the ball past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Maybe there exists another reality in which, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins might resume scoring again.
• The attacking talent could transform into the performer he resembled during his peak.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually regain fitness, strengthening a periodically leaky defence.

This could contain the potential of a title challenge, but they surely can continue to depend solely on a single individual.

Relishing the Unlikely

But then, this was unforeseen. Few believed Villa would sit in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely two months ago, nobody thought the midfielder now would be spearheading a title charge and appearing as an essential player for the national team.

This winning streak should be enjoyed precisely because it seems so surreal. As the match-winner stood in front of the home supporters when the game ended conducting the cheers, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.