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It was two months in the past that the young forward found himself on the Sunderland turf, looking confused as Unai Emery scolded him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. At that point, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained whether his performances were a sign or the source for Villa's broader struggles.

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

On Sunday, however, the sideline response was much more joyous. After the in-form star curled home his second to reclaim the lead for Villa, the boss ripped off his coat, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. The team continued to a 10th successive win , after failing to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, find themselves just three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Hopefuls?

It remains an exceptionally difficult question to answer. The historical record, the perceived status of Villa, suggests not. Furthermore, they have not been wholly dominant in many games, despite the fact the wins have accumulated.

According to the data, twice all season has the team posted an xG significantly higher than the opposition. For a side who have strung together a ten-match winning streak, they seem curiously susceptible – however at the moment the tight outcomes are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic looks like to engage in a shootout with rivals and wait for Rogers to save the day with two clinical strikes. It happened at Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and once more versus United.

His opener came from a superb shot, arced right inside the upright from a wide position. His brace-completing goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of goal number one capitalizing 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.”

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opponents had a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. They have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. The defence has been breached in all but one of those fixtures.

Regression to the mean may well be the biggest rival they must confront over the coming weeks. Their key man, in all likelihood, will not continue to blasting the football past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

A Case for Belief

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

• Ollie Watkins could start adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent might become the player he resembled during his peak.
• The defensive duo will eventually regain fitness, fortifying a periodically leaky backline.

Maybe within that lies the potential of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on one man.

Savoring the Moment

But then, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Villa would sit in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt earlier this season, few could imagine the midfielder by the end of the year would be spearheading a championship pursuit and appearing as an essential England player.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed precisely because it seems so surreal. As the match-winner faced the home supporters after the match leading the celebrations, he seemed to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods do not happen often and should be relished.