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Just eight weeks ago that the young forward stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered as the Villa manager scolded him over missing a penetrating pass. During that period, as the club endured a six-game winless run, the question was whether his displays were a sign or the reason for 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 touchline reaction proved to be much more joyous. As the England international curled home his second strike to reclaim Villa's lead, Emery ripped off his jacket, spread his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club continued to a 10th successive win , after failing to win their initial half-dozen games, are somehow a mere three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Is This Team Genuine Challengers?

It remains a particularly tough proposition to resolve. The historical record, the traditional standing of this institution, argues against it. Moreover, they've rarely been entirely convincing during this run, even as the victories have piled up.

As per Opta, twice all season has the side registered an expected goals figure significantly higher than their opponents. For a side who have strung together ten consecutive victories, Villa look weirdly vulnerable – but at the moment the tight outcomes are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic seems to be to exchange chances with an opponent and wait for their talisman to save the day with two crisp finishes. It happened away to Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and it happened against Manchester United.

The initial strike stemmed from a brilliant finish, arced right inside the post from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of the opener as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.

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

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opposition had more shots and more shots on target. Villa have won each of their last eight by just one goal. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those fixtures.

Regression to the mean may well be the most significant challenge Villa have to face as the season progresses. Their key man, surely, will not continue to drilling his shots into the net's top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is another reality in which, instead of results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players could still find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins could start scoring again.
• The winger may rediscover the player he resembled during his peak.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to come back from the treatment room, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the seeds of a title challenge, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on a single individual.

Savoring the Moment

But then, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt back in October, no one envisioned the midfielder now would be leading a hunt for the title while looking like a vital England player.

This remarkable period must be cherished for the very reason that it seems so surreal. As Rogers stood in front of the home supporters when the game ended conducting the cheers, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. These spells are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.