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Just two months prior that the young forward stood on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed as Unai Emery scolded him for failing to anticipate a through-ball. Back then, as Villa went six without a win, the question was whether his performances were an indicator or the reason for the side's broader struggles.

“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”

This weekend, though, the manager's outburst was entirely far more favourable. After the in-form star swept in his second strike to reclaim Villa's lead, the boss tore off his winter coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The team were on their way to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win their opening six fixtures, now sit just three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.

Is This Team Legitimate Challengers?

That’s a particularly tough query to answer. History, the traditional standing of this institution, indicates otherwise. Moreover, their performances haven't been completely commanding during this run, even as the wins have piled up.

Per the data, twice all season has the side posted an xG more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a team which has just won ten consecutive victories, the Villans seem weirdly vulnerable – but right now the tight outcomes are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic appears to be to trade blows with the opposition and wait for their star man to bail them out with two crisp finishes. This was the case away to Leeds, it happened in London, and again against Manchester United.

His opener stemmed from a superb shot, arced just inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he seized on a pass from Watkins.

“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”

Can It Last?

Logic says not. During the latest victory, the opposition had a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. They have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all but one of those games.

A reversion to average could be the most significant challenge the club have to face over the coming weeks. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot keep on blasting the ball past despairing goalkeepers forever.

Potential for Growth

Could it be another reality where, instead of luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures could still return to peak condition.

• Ollie Watkins may begin to scoring again.
• The attacking talent might become the player he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs are due to come back from the treatment room, strengthening a periodically leaky backline.

This could contain the seeds of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.

Relishing the Unlikely

But then, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought the team would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And certainly two months ago, no one envisioned Rogers as the year closed would be spearheading a championship pursuit 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. When the hero stood in front of the North End after the match conducting the cheers, he seemed to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.