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A mere eight weeks prior that the Villa attacker found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed as the Villa manager scolded him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. Back then, with the team went six without a win, the question was whether his displays were a symptom or the source 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, though, the sideline response was far more favourable. After the England international swept in his second strike to reclaim the lead for Villa, Emery tore off his winter coat, opened his arms and roared. Villa continued to a tenth straight victory and having failed to win their opening six matches, find themselves a mere three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Challengers?

This is an exceptionally difficult question to answer. The historical record, the traditional standing of this institution, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they've rarely been entirely convincing in many games, while the victories have accumulated.

As per Opta, on just two occasions has the side posted an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a side who have put together 10 in a row, the Villans look curiously susceptible – yet right now the margins are swinging for them.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy appears to be to trade blows with an opponent and then rely on their talisman to bail them out with two precise efforts. It happened away to Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and again when facing the Red Devils.

His opener originated from an exquisite effort, arced just inside the post from a wide position. For his second proved to be a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he seized on a pass from Watkins.

“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opposition managed a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. They have won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those fixtures.

A statistical correction might be the biggest rival the club have to face over the coming weeks. The forward, almost certainly, will not continue to thrashing the football into the net's top corner indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Perhaps there is a different scenario whereby, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures might still rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins could start adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent could transform into the performer he was during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs are due to come back from the treatment room, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

This could contain the possibility of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on a single individual.

Enjoying the Ride

But then, this was unforeseen. Few believed Aston Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt two months ago, few could imagine Rogers by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title while looking like a crucial player for the national team.

This remarkable period is to be savoured precisely because it feels so unlikely. When the hero positioned himself before the home supporters at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. Such periods do not happen often and must be appreciated.