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A mere eight weeks in the past that the young forward found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed while Unai Emery berated him over not reading a through-ball. At that point, as the club endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained if Rogers' form were an indicator or the reason for Villa's more general malaise.

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

This weekend, in contrast, the manager's outburst proved to be much more joyous. When the England international swept in his second strike to reclaim his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician ripped off his coat, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. Villa marched on to a 10th successive win and after failing to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, now sit a mere three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Serious Title Contenders?

It remains an exceptionally difficult query to address. History, the perceived status of Villa, argues against it. Furthermore, they've rarely been completely commanding this season, while the victories have piled up.

According to Opta, in only two games has the side had an xG notably superior than their opponents. For a team that have strung together ten consecutive victories, Villa look curiously susceptible – however at the moment the fine lines are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy seems to be to trade blows with rivals and then rely on their star man to save the day with a couple of crisp finishes. This occurred at Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and it happened versus Manchester United.

His opener originated from a superb shot, arced right inside the post from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal acted as a slight scruffier version of goal number one 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.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, Manchester United managed a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those matches.

A statistical correction could be the most significant challenge the club will encounter over the coming weeks. Rogers, surely, cannot maintain thrashing the football into the net's top corner forever.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be an alternative path whereby, instead of results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs might still rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward might resume finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the force he was during his peak.
• The defensive duo are due to come back from the treatment room, fortifying a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the possibility of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.

Savoring the Moment

However, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Aston Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And certainly back in October, nobody thought the young forward by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit and appearing as a crucial England player.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed precisely because it seems so surreal. As the match-winner faced the Villa faithful after the match conducting the cheers, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.