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Just two months prior when the young forward was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered as Unai Emery berated him for failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. Back then, as the club endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear whether his displays were a symptom or the reason of Villa's broader struggles.

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

On Sunday, in contrast, the manager's outburst was entirely much more joyous. After Rogers drilled in his second to reinstate Villa's lead, the boss tore off his winter coat, spread his arms and roared. The Birmingham club were on their way to a 10th successive win and after failing to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, find themselves just three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Is This Team Legitimate Hopefuls?

It remains a particularly tough proposition to address. History, the traditional standing of this institution, argues against it. Furthermore, they have not been entirely convincing this season, despite the fact the positive results have stacked up.

According to Opta, on just two occasions has the side posted an xG significantly higher than the other team. For a side which has put together 10 in a row, the Villans look curiously susceptible – yet right now the fine lines are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy looks like to exchange chances with the opposition and then rely on their star man to rescue them with a couple of precise efforts. This occurred away to Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and once more when facing Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal came from an exquisite effort, bent just inside the upright from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of his first 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.”

Is It Sustainable?

Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, the opposition had a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. The team has won each of their last eight by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those fixtures.

Regression to the mean could be the biggest rival Villa must confront as the season progresses. Their key man, surely, will not continue to blasting his shots past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

A Case for Belief

Maybe there exists another reality in which, instead of luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet find their top level.

• The centre-forward may begin to finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho might become the performer he resembled in Germany.
• The injured centre-backs are set to come back from the treatment room, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable backline.

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

Relishing the Unlikely

But then, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt back in October, few could imagine the midfielder as the year closed would be at the forefront of a title charge and appearing as an essential player for the national team.

This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As Rogers stood in front of the North End at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These spells do not happen often and must be appreciated.