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It was eight weeks ago that the Villa attacker found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed as his coach berated him for not reading a pass in behind. At that point, as the club went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether his performances were a symptom or the source for Villa's broader struggles.

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

In the latest match, though, the sideline response was far more favourable. When the England international swept in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician ripped off his winter coat, spread his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club were on their way to a 10th successive win , having failed to win their initial half-dozen matches, find themselves a mere three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Is This Team Legitimate Title Contenders?

It remains a particularly tough query to resolve. Past precedent, a general sense of Villa, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, their performances haven't been entirely convincing in many games, while the positive results have accumulated.

According to statistical analysis, in only two games has the team posted an xG more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a club which has put together a ten-match winning streak, the Villans appear weirdly vulnerable – but currently the margins are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy seems to be to trade blows with the opposition before hoping their star man to save the day with a couple of crisp finishes. It happened away to Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and again when facing the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal originated from a superb shot, curled right inside the upright from a wide position. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of goal number one 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.”

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opponents registered more shots and more direct attempts. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all except one of those games.

Regression to the mean could be the biggest rival the club must confront over the coming weeks. The forward, surely, will not continue to blasting the football into the top corner forever.

A Case for Belief

Could it be an alternative path where, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures could still return to peak condition.

• The main striker might resume scoring again.
• The attacking talent may rediscover the player he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
• The defensive duo are due to return from injury, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defence.

This could contain the potential of a genuine bid, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on one man.

Relishing the Unlikely

But then, nobody expected this. Few believed Villa would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely back in October, few could imagine Rogers by the end of the year would be leading a hunt for the title while looking like an essential player for the national team.

This winning streak must be cherished exactly since it appears so improbable. When the hero positioned himself before the home supporters after the match leading the celebrations, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.