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It was two months in the past when the Villa attacker was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed while the Villa manager berated him for missing a pass in behind. During that period, as the club went six without a win, doubts remained if his performances were a sign or the reason of the side'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 entirely decidedly more positive. As Rogers swept in his brace-sealing goal to reinstate Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician discarded his winter coat, opened his arms and roared. The Birmingham club continued to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning their opening six fixtures, now sit only three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Title Contenders?

This is an exceptionally difficult proposition to address. Past precedent, the traditional standing of this institution, argues against it. Furthermore, they've rarely been entirely convincing in many games, while the positive results have stacked up.

As per the data, twice all season has the team had an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a side who have put together ten consecutive victories, the Villans look strangely fragile – however at the moment the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

The current approach looks like to engage in a shootout with rivals and wait for Rogers to save the day with two precise efforts. This was the case away to Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and again against United.

The initial strike originated from a brilliant finish, arced just inside the upright from a wide position. The follow-up goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he pounced on a setup by his strike partner.

“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?

Logic says not. Against United, the opposition had a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. Villa have won each of their last eight by a single goal. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those fixtures.

A reversion to average could be the most significant challenge they must confront as the season progresses. Their key man, in all likelihood, will not continue to blasting the ball into the top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is a different scenario whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs might still find their top level.

• The centre-forward might resume adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent might become the force he showed during his peak.
• The defensive duo will eventually return from injury, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable backline.

Maybe within that lies the potential of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on one man.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this was unforeseen. Few believed Aston Villa would sit in the top three for the holidays. And certainly back in October, few could imagine the midfielder by the end of the year would be spearheading a championship pursuit and appearing as an essential Three Lions star.

This remarkable period is to be savoured exactly since it appears so improbable. As Rogers faced the North End after the match leading the celebrations, he seemed to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.