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It was 60 days ago when the young forward found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while Unai Emery admonished him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. At that point, as Villa failed to win in six, doubts remained whether his performances were an indicator or the source of Villa's broader struggles.

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

In the latest match, though, the manager's outburst was entirely far more favourable. After the in-form star curled home his second to reclaim Villa's lead, the boss discarded his jacket, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The team marched on to ten wins in a row and despite not winning any of their first six matches, are somehow only three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Hopefuls?

This is an exceptionally difficult query to answer. The historical record, the perceived status of the club, argues against it. Moreover, they have not been wholly dominant during this run, even as the victories have accumulated.

Per Opta, on just two occasions has the side had an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a side that have just won a ten-match winning streak, the Villans seem strangely fragile – but right now the tight outcomes are swinging for them.

The Reliant Strategy

The prevailing tactic appears to be to exchange chances with the opposition before hoping their talisman to save the day with some precise efforts. It happened away to Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and it happened versus the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal originated from a superb shot, arced precisely inside the post from the edge of the area. For his second acted as a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he pounced 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.”

Can It Last?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opponents managed a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. Villa have won each of their last eight by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those matches.

A statistical correction could be the greatest opponent Villa must confront as the season progresses. Their key man, almost certainly, cannot maintain blasting the ball into the top corner week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Could it be another reality in which, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs may yet find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins might resume adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent might become the force he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to come back from the treatment room, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

However, nobody expected this. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would be in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely back in October, few could imagine the young forward by the end of the year would be spearheading a title charge while looking like an essential player for the national team.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed exactly since it feels so unlikely. As Rogers positioned himself before the North End when the game ended conducting the cheers, he appeared to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.