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It was 60 days in the past that the young forward found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused as Unai Emery berated him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. At that point, as the club endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear whether his performances were a symptom or the source of Villa'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 touchline reaction was decidedly more positive. As the England international swept in his second to reclaim Villa's lead, the boss ripped off his jacket, threw his arms wide and roared. The Birmingham club marched on to ten wins in a row , after failing to win their initial half-dozen matches, now sit a mere three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Challengers?

That’s a particularly tough proposition to resolve. The historical record, a general sense of the club, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they have not been entirely convincing this season, despite the fact the wins have piled up.

According to statistical analysis, in only two games has the side registered an xG more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a team which has just won ten consecutive victories, Villa appear curiously susceptible – however at the moment the tight outcomes are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

The current approach looks like to engage in a shootout with the opposition and then rely on their talisman to bail them out with some clinical strikes. It happened at Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and once more when facing the Red Devils.

The initial strike stemmed from an exquisite effort, arced right inside the upright from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of his first as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.

“Perhaps Rogers’ right foot is becoming like Arjen Robben’s left: just because you know he’s going to whip the ball into the top corner doesn’t mean you can stop him.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Logic says not. In the recent win, the opponents registered more shots and more direct attempts. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all except one of those games.

A statistical correction may well be the greatest opponent they must confront in the near future. The forward, surely, will not continue to thrashing the ball into the net's top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is an alternative path where, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures could still find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins could start scoring again.
• The attacking talent may rediscover the performer he showed in Germany.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to regain fitness, strengthening a sometimes shaky defence.

This could contain the seeds of a title challenge, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

But then, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Aston Villa would be third at Christmas. And without a doubt earlier this season, few could imagine the young forward as the year closed would be spearheading a title charge while looking like a vital player for the national team.

This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When the match-winner faced the North End after the match conducting the cheers, it was clear to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.