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A mere 60 days prior that the Villa attacker found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused as Unai Emery berated him for missing a pass in behind. Back then, with the team endured a six-game winless run, the question was whether his performances were an indicator or a cause for the side's broader struggles.

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

This weekend, in contrast, the manager's outburst proved to be decidedly more positive. As Rogers drilled in his second to reinstate the lead for Villa, Emery tore off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The Birmingham club marched on to a tenth straight victory , after failing to win any of their first six matches, now sit a mere three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Serious Challengers?

It remains an exceptionally difficult query to resolve. Past precedent, the traditional standing of Villa, argues against it. Moreover, they have not been completely commanding during this run, despite the fact the victories have piled up.

According to Opta, on just two occasions has the side posted an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a side who have strung together a ten-match winning streak, they appear weirdly vulnerable – however right now the margins are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic appears to be to exchange chances with the opposition and wait for Rogers to bail them out with some clinical strikes. This was the case against Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and it happened versus Manchester United.

His opener originated from an exquisite effort, curled right inside the upright from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal acted as a slight scruffier version of his first capitalizing 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.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Logic says not. During the latest victory, the opponents had more shots and more efforts on goal. They have won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all except one of those matches.

A statistical correction may well be the most significant challenge the club will encounter over the coming weeks. The forward, surely, will not continue to blasting his shots past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Could it be a different scenario where, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs might still return to peak condition.

• The main striker might resume adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent might become the force he showed during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs will eventually regain fitness, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable backline.

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

Enjoying the Ride

But then, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable the team would be third at Christmas. And most definitely two months ago, nobody thought the midfielder now would be spearheading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as an essential England player.

The current run must be cherished for the very reason that it seems so surreal. When Rogers stood in front of the Villa faithful after the match leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.