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Just 60 days ago when the young forward was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused as Unai Emery scolded him over missing a pass in behind. Back then, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear if his performances were an indicator or the reason for the side's broader struggles.

“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”

In the latest match, though, the manager's outburst proved to be much more joyous. When the in-form star curled home his second strike to reinstate Villa's lead, Emery discarded his jacket, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The team were on their way to ten wins in a row and despite not winning their initial half-dozen fixtures, now sit a mere three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Is This Team Legitimate Challengers?

It remains a particularly tough proposition to resolve. History, the perceived status of the club, argues against it. Furthermore, they have not been entirely convincing during this run, while the positive results have piled up.

According to statistical analysis, in only two games has the team had an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a side which has just won 10 in a row, Villa seem strangely fragile – however at the moment the tight outcomes are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic appears to be to engage in a shootout with the opposition and then rely on their talisman to save the day with two crisp finishes. This was the case against Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and it happened when facing Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal originated from a superb shot, arced just inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal acted as a slight scruffier version of his first as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.

“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. Against United, the opponents managed more efforts and more efforts on goal. Villa have won each of their last eight by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all except one of those fixtures.

A reversion to average may well be the most significant challenge Villa must confront as the season progresses. Their key man, almost certainly, cannot keep on thrashing the football into the top corner week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists a different scenario whereby, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures might still return to peak condition.

• The centre-forward might resume finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the player he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs are set to regain fitness, fortifying a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

This could contain the possibility for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on one man.

Relishing the Unlikely

But then, nobody expected this. Nobody thought Aston Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And certainly earlier this season, few could imagine the midfielder now would be spearheading a hunt for the title and appearing as a crucial Three Lions star.

This winning streak must be cherished precisely because it seems so surreal. When the match-winner stood in front of the Villa faithful when the game ended conducting the cheers, it was clear to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.