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Just 60 days ago when the young forward found himself on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered as his coach berated him over failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. At that point, as the club went six without a win, the question was whether his performances were a symptom or the source of Villa's more general malaise.

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

In the latest match, in contrast, the sideline response was decidedly more positive. As the England international swept in his second to reclaim Villa's lead, Emery ripped off his jacket, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club were on their way to a tenth straight victory , despite not winning their opening six fixtures, are somehow just three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Is This Team Legitimate Title Contenders?

That’s a particularly tough question to address. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, argues against it. Moreover, their performances haven't been wholly dominant in many games, despite the fact the positive results have accumulated.

Per statistical analysis, twice all season have Villa had an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a team that have put together a ten-match winning streak, Villa look weirdly vulnerable – however at the moment the fine lines are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

The current approach looks like to engage in a shootout with rivals and wait for their star man to rescue them with some crisp finishes. It happened away to Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and again versus Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal originated from a superb shot, curled precisely inside the upright from the edge of the area. For his second was essentially a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he pounced on a setup by his strike partner.

“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?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opponents registered more efforts and more shots on target. The team has won each of their last eight by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those matches.

A statistical correction may well be the biggest rival the club have to face in the near future. Rogers, surely, will not continue to blasting the football into the top corner week in, week out.

A Case for Belief

Could it be a different scenario where, instead of luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs might still rediscover their best form.

• The main striker might resume finding the net regularly.
• The winger might become the player he showed in Germany.
• The defensive duo will eventually return from injury, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

Perhaps there is in that the potential of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

Yet, this was unforeseen. Few believed the team would occupy third at Christmas. And certainly two months ago, nobody thought the midfielder as the year closed would be leading a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a vital player for the national team.

This winning streak must be cherished exactly since it seems so surreal. As Rogers faced the home supporters after the match leading the celebrations, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. Such periods do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.