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Just 60 days ago that the young forward found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused as Unai Emery admonished him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. Back then, as Villa went six without a win, the question was if Rogers' form were an indicator or the reason for Villa's more general malaise.

“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”

In the latest match, however, the manager's outburst was decidedly more positive. After Rogers swept in his second strike to reinstate his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician discarded his coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club marched on to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win their opening six fixtures, find themselves just three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Are They Serious Challengers?

This is a rather hard question to answer. The historical record, the traditional standing of the club, indicates otherwise. Additionally, their performances haven't been entirely convincing this season, even as the positive results have piled up.

As per Opta, in only two games has the team had an xG more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a side who have put together a ten-match winning streak, Villa look weirdly vulnerable – but right now the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Winning Formula

The prevailing tactic seems to be to trade blows with an opponent and wait for their talisman to save the day with two precise efforts. This occurred against Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and again versus United.

Rogers' first goal came from a superb shot, bent precisely inside the post from a wide position. His brace-completing goal acted as a slight scruffier version of his first as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.

“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.”

Can It Last?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, Manchester United registered a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. They have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those fixtures.

A reversion to average may well be the greatest opponent the club must confront over the coming weeks. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot maintain drilling his shots into the net's top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Could it be an alternative path whereby, instead of results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures might still rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent may rediscover the performer he was during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs will eventually regain fitness, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable defence.

This could contain the possibility of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on one man.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, this was unforeseen. Few believed Aston Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And most definitely two months ago, nobody thought Rogers by the end of the year would be leading a title charge while looking like an essential Three Lions star.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed precisely because it feels so unlikely. As the hero stood in front of the North End when the game ended conducting the cheers, it was clear to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These spells are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.