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A mere eight weeks ago that the Villa attacker stood on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while Unai Emery berated him for missing a penetrating pass. Back then, as Villa failed to win in six, it wasn't clear if his displays were a sign or the source for the side's broader struggles.

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

In the latest match, though, the sideline response was much more joyous. As Rogers swept in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim Villa's lead, Emery discarded his coat, opened his arms and bellowed. The team continued to a 10th successive win and despite not winning any of their first six matches, find themselves only three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Title Contenders?

That’s a particularly tough proposition to address. The historical record, the perceived status of this institution, suggests not. Moreover, they've rarely been wholly dominant this season, despite the fact the positive results have accumulated.

According to the data, in only two games has the side posted an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a club that have just won 10 in a row, they appear strangely fragile – but currently the margins are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

The prevailing tactic looks like to exchange chances with the opposition and wait for their talisman to bail them out with some precise efforts. It happened against Leeds, it occurred in London, and once more versus Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal originated from a superb shot, bent precisely inside the upright from a wide position. His brace-completing goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of goal number one capitalizing on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“Perhaps Rogers’ right foot is becoming like Arjen Robben’s left: just because you know he’s going to whip the ball into the top corner doesn’t mean you can stop him.”

Can It Last?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opponents had more efforts and more efforts on goal. Villa have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those games.

A statistical correction could be the biggest rival the club have to face as the season progresses. The forward, in all likelihood, will not continue to blasting the ball into the top corner week in, week out.

Reasons for Optimism

Perhaps there is a different scenario in which, rather than luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players might still find their top level.

• The main striker could start adding to his goal tally.
• The winger may rediscover the force he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs are set to regain fitness, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

Perhaps there is in that the seeds of a genuine bid, but they surely can continue to depend solely on one man.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, this was unforeseen. Few believed Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt back in October, nobody thought Rogers as the year closed would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title and appearing as a vital Three Lions star.

This winning streak must be cherished for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When the match-winner stood in front of the North End when the game ended orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. These spells do not happen often and should be relished.