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Just eight weeks in the past that the young forward found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered as Unai Emery scolded him for failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. At that point, as Villa went six without a win, it wasn't clear if his displays were a symptom or the source for the team's broader struggles.

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

This weekend, though, the manager's outburst was far more favourable. After Rogers curled home his second to restore the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician tore off his jacket, opened his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club were on their way to a 10th successive win , despite not winning their initial half-dozen games, are somehow just three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Is This Team Legitimate Hopefuls?

This is a particularly tough question to resolve. The historical record, the perceived status of the club, indicates otherwise. Additionally, they have not been completely commanding in many games, despite the fact the wins have stacked up.

As per statistical analysis, twice all season has the side posted an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a team which has just won ten consecutive victories, Villa look curiously susceptible – yet currently the margins are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy seems to be to trade blows with an opponent and then rely on their talisman to bail them out with some precise efforts. This occurred away to Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and it happened versus the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal stemmed from a superb shot, curled precisely inside the upright from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first as he seized on a pass from Watkins.

“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?

Logic says not. In the recent win, the opponents registered a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. They have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those fixtures.

A reversion to average might be the most significant challenge the club must confront in the near future. The forward, surely, cannot maintain blasting his shots past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

A Case for Belief

Perhaps there is an alternative path whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players might still rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins might resume finding the net regularly.
• The attacking talent could transform into the force he showed in Germany.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually regain fitness, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable backline.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a title challenge, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would be third at Christmas. And without a doubt earlier this season, nobody thought Rogers as the year closed would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit and appearing as an essential England player.

The current run must be cherished exactly since it seems so surreal. As the hero stood in front of the Villa faithful when the game ended orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. These spells do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.