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Just eight weeks ago that the young forward stood on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while Unai Emery scolded him over missing a pass in behind. Back then, with the team went six without a win, the question was if his performances were an indicator or the source of Villa's wider issues.

“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”

On Sunday, though, the sideline response proved to be far more favourable. After the in-form star drilled in his second strike to restore his side's advantage, Emery discarded his coat, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The team continued to a 10th successive win and after failing to win their opening six games, now sit only three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.

Are They Serious Title Contenders?

This is a particularly tough query to resolve. The historical record, the traditional standing of Villa, suggests not. Additionally, their performances haven't been entirely convincing in many games, despite the fact the positive results have stacked up.

According to the data, twice all season has the team had an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a side who have put together ten consecutive victories, they appear curiously susceptible – but at the moment the margins are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy seems to be to trade blows with an opponent before hoping their star man to rescue them with some precise efforts. This was the case at Leeds, it occurred in London, and once more when facing Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal originated from an exquisite effort, curled just inside the post from the edge of the area. For his second acted as a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he seized on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“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?

Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, Manchester United had a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. The team has secured their last eight victories by just one goal. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those fixtures.

Regression to the mean might be the biggest rival they have to face as the season progresses. Rogers, surely, will not continue to drilling the football into the net's top corner forever.

A Case for Belief

Could it be a different scenario where, instead of results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs might still rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• The winger could transform into the player he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
• 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 possibility of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this was unforeseen. Few believed Villa would be third at Christmas. And without a doubt two months ago, few could imagine the midfielder by the end of the year would be leading a championship pursuit while looking like a crucial player for the national team.

The current run is to be savoured precisely because it appears so improbable. When Rogers faced the home supporters when the game ended leading the celebrations, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.