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Just 60 days in the past that the young forward was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused as the Villa manager admonished him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. At that point, as Villa failed to win in six, the question was if his displays were a sign or the reason for 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, though, the sideline response was entirely decidedly more positive. After the England international drilled in his second strike to restore the lead for Villa, the boss tore off his jacket, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. The team marched on to ten wins in a row , despite not winning any of their first six matches, now sit just three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Serious Title Contenders?

This is a particularly tough query to answer. The historical record, the traditional standing of this institution, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they've rarely been completely commanding during this run, despite the fact the victories have stacked up.

Per the data, on just two occasions has the side registered an xG more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a side which has just won ten consecutive victories, the Villans appear weirdly vulnerable – yet currently the fine lines are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

The current approach appears to be to trade blows with the opposition and wait for their talisman to save the day with two precise efforts. This was the case away to Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and again against the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal originated from a superb shot, bent precisely inside the goal frame from a wide position. The follow-up goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of the opener capitalizing on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“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.”

Is It Sustainable?

Reason suggests otherwise. In the recent win, the opposition registered a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. They have won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all except one of those fixtures.

Regression to the mean might be the most significant challenge they have to face as the season progresses. The forward, almost certainly, cannot maintain thrashing the ball past despairing goalkeepers forever.

A Case for Belief

Maybe there exists a different scenario whereby, rather than results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures may yet find their top level.

• The centre-forward could start scoring again.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the force he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs are due to return from injury, fortifying a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

This could contain the possibility for a sustained push, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on one man.

Savoring the Moment

But then, nobody expected this. It seemed improbable the team would sit in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt earlier this season, no one envisioned the midfielder as the year closed would be leading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a vital player for the national team.

This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it seems so surreal. As the hero positioned himself before the North End when the game ended leading the celebrations, it was clear to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. Such periods are rare in football and should be relished.