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Just 60 days prior that the Villa attacker found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while the Villa manager scolded him for not reading a through-ball. During that period, with the team failed to win in six, the question was if Rogers' form were a sign or a cause for Villa's more general malaise.

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

On Sunday, in contrast, the manager's outburst proved to be far more favourable. After the England international curled home his second to reinstate his side's advantage, Emery ripped off his coat, spread his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club marched on to a tenth straight victory and having failed to win any of their first six fixtures, find themselves a mere three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Title Contenders?

This is an exceptionally difficult proposition to answer. The historical record, the perceived status of this institution, suggests not. Moreover, they've rarely been completely commanding this season, while the wins have accumulated.

According to the data, on just two occasions has the team posted an xG significantly higher than the other team. For a team which has strung together 10 in a row, the Villans appear curiously susceptible – but currently the tight outcomes are swinging for them.

The Reliant Strategy

The prevailing tactic looks like to exchange chances with an opponent and wait for Rogers to save the day with a couple of crisp finishes. This was the case away to Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and it happened against United.

His opener came from a superb shot, curled just inside the post from a wide position. For his second acted as a slightly less clean iteration of his first as he pounced on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“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?

Logic says not. In the recent win, the opposition had a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in all but one of those games.

Regression to the mean could be the biggest rival the club will encounter as the season progresses. Their key man, surely, will not continue to blasting the football past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Could it be another reality whereby, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures could still rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins might resume scoring again.
• The winger could transform into the player he showed in Germany.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to return from injury, fortifying a periodically leaky backline.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on one man.

Relishing the Unlikely

But then, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought the team would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt back in October, nobody thought the midfielder as the year closed would be leading a championship pursuit while looking like a vital Three Lions star.

The current run should be enjoyed for the very reason that it seems so surreal. When the match-winner positioned himself before the home supporters at the final whistle leading the celebrations, it was clear to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These runs of form do not happen often and should be relished.