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Just 60 days ago that the Villa attacker stood on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused as Unai Emery admonished him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. Back then, with the team endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained whether his performances were a sign or the source for Villa's more general malaise.

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

This weekend, though, the sideline response proved to be much more joyous. As Rogers swept in his brace-sealing goal to reinstate his side's advantage, Emery ripped off his jacket, threw his arms wide and roared. The Birmingham club were on their way to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win any of their first six games, are somehow only three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Challengers?

That’s a rather hard proposition to answer. Past precedent, the perceived status of the club, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they have not been entirely convincing in many games, while the positive results have accumulated.

As per Opta, in only two games have Villa posted an expected goals figure significantly higher than their opponents. For a side that have just won a ten-match winning streak, they seem curiously susceptible – but currently the margins are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

The current approach appears to be to trade blows with rivals before hoping their star man to save the day with two crisp finishes. This was the case away to Leeds, it transpired in London, and again against Manchester United.

His opener originated from a brilliant finish, arced precisely inside the post from the edge of the area. For his second was essentially a slight scruffier version of his first as he seized on a pass from Watkins.

“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Logic says not. During the latest victory, the opponents managed more efforts and more direct attempts. They have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all but one of those matches.

Regression to the mean may well be the most significant challenge Villa will encounter over the coming weeks. Rogers, in all likelihood, will not continue to drilling the football into the net's top corner week in, week out.

A Case for Belief

Maybe there exists another reality whereby, instead of results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs may yet find their top level.

• The main striker might resume adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho could transform into the player he resembled during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs are set to regain fitness, bolstering a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

This could contain the potential for a sustained push, but they surely cannot keep relying on one man.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would be third at Christmas. And without a doubt back in October, few could imagine Rogers by the end of the year would be spearheading a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a crucial Three Lions star.

This remarkable period must be cherished exactly since it seems so surreal. When Rogers stood in front of the home supporters at the final whistle leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells do not happen often and must be appreciated.