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It was 60 days prior that the young forward was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed as his coach berated him for failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. Back then, as Villa went six without a win, doubts remained whether his performances were a symptom or a cause of the team's broader struggles.

“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”

On Sunday, in contrast, the touchline reaction was decidedly more positive. As the England international swept in his second to restore Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician discarded his coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The team continued to a tenth straight victory , after failing to win their opening six fixtures, are somehow a mere three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Title Contenders?

It remains a rather hard question to address. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, suggests not. Additionally, they've rarely been wholly dominant during this run, even as the victories have accumulated.

According to the data, on just two occasions have Villa posted an xG notably superior than their opponents. For a side which has just won ten consecutive victories, Villa seem weirdly vulnerable – yet right now the margins are going in their favour.

The Winning Formula

The current approach looks like to engage in a shootout with the opposition before hoping their star man to save the day with a couple of crisp finishes. This was the case against Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and it happened versus Manchester United.

The initial strike stemmed from an exquisite effort, curled right inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal proved to be a slightly less clean iteration of the opener as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.

“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?

Logic says not. Against United, the opposition managed more shots and more efforts on goal. The team has won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all but one of those fixtures.

A statistical correction may well be the biggest rival Villa have to face in the near future. Their key man, surely, cannot keep on drilling his shots into the top corner week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Could it be another reality where, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures may yet rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho might become the player he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to regain fitness, strengthening a sometimes shaky backline.

Maybe within that lies the potential of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

However, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And certainly back in October, nobody thought the midfielder as the year closed would be leading a hunt for the title while looking like an essential Three Lions star.

This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it seems so surreal. When the match-winner stood in front of the home supporters when the game ended leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. These spells are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.