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Just 60 days prior when the young forward was standing on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered while Unai Emery scolded him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. During that period, with the team endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained if his performances were a symptom or the source of Villa's wider issues.

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

In the latest match, though, the sideline response was far more favourable. As the England international curled home his second strike to restore Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician tore off his coat, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club were on their way to a 10th successive win and despite not winning any of their first six matches, find themselves only three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Hopefuls?

This is a rather hard query to resolve. History, the traditional standing of this institution, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they've rarely been completely commanding this season, while the positive results have stacked up.

Per Opta, on just two occasions have Villa registered an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a side which has just won ten consecutive victories, the Villans look strangely fragile – however right now the fine lines are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

The current approach looks like to trade blows with rivals and wait for Rogers to save the day with some crisp finishes. This occurred at Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and again when facing Manchester United.

His opener came from an exquisite effort, arced right inside the post from a wide position. The follow-up goal acted as a slight scruffier version of the opener as he seized 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.”

Can It Last?

Logic says not. During the latest victory, the opponents managed more shots and more efforts on goal. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those games.

A reversion to average might be the biggest rival Villa have to face in the near future. Their key man, almost certainly, will not continue to drilling the football into the top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists an alternative path where, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs may yet rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins may begin to finding the net regularly.
• The attacking talent may rediscover the force he was during his peak.
• The defensive duo will eventually return from injury, bolstering a periodically leaky defensive unit.

This could contain the possibility of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on one man.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And certainly two months ago, no one envisioned Rogers by the end of the year would be spearheading a championship pursuit and appearing as a crucial England player.

The current run should be enjoyed exactly since it seems so surreal. As Rogers faced the Villa faithful after the match orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.