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A mere two months prior that the Villa attacker was standing on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered as his coach scolded him for missing a penetrating pass. At that point, as the club failed to win in six, it wasn't clear whether Rogers' form were a sign or the reason for Villa's wider issues.

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

In the latest match, in contrast, the sideline response was entirely decidedly more positive. As Rogers curled home his second to reinstate his side's advantage, Emery discarded his winter coat, opened his arms and roared. The Birmingham club marched on to a 10th successive win , having failed to win any of their first six matches, are somehow only three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Title Contenders?

This is a rather hard proposition to address. History, the traditional standing of this institution, argues against it. Moreover, they have not been wholly dominant in many games, despite the fact the wins have piled up.

Per the data, in only two games have Villa registered an xG notably superior than their opponents. For a side which has put together 10 in a row, Villa appear strangely fragile – however right now the margins are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic appears to be to engage in a shootout with the opposition and then rely on Rogers to save the day with some clinical strikes. This was the case away to Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and once more when facing United.

His opener came from a superb shot, arced right inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. For his second proved to be a slight scruffier version of the opener capitalizing on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

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

How Long Can This Continue?

Logic says not. Against United, the opposition registered more shots and more direct attempts. The team has won each of their last eight by a single goal. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those games.

Regression to the mean could be the most significant challenge they must confront in the near future. Rogers, almost certainly, cannot maintain drilling the football past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

A Case for Belief

Could it be another reality where, instead of results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures could still return to peak condition.

• The main striker could start adding to his goal tally.
• The winger might become the performer he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
• The defensive duo are set to come back from the treatment room, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable backline.

This could contain the possibility of a genuine bid, but they surely can continue to depend solely on a single individual.

Enjoying the Ride

However, this is a surprise. Few believed Villa would sit third at Christmas. And without a doubt earlier this season, nobody thought the young forward now would be spearheading a championship pursuit while looking like a vital Three Lions star.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. When the hero faced the home supporters at the final whistle leading the celebrations, it was clear to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.