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Just two months ago that the Villa attacker stood on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered as his coach scolded him over not reading a penetrating pass. Back then, as the club endured a six-game winless run, the question was whether Rogers' form were a sign or the reason of the side's broader struggles.

“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”

In the latest match, in contrast, the sideline response was entirely decidedly more positive. As Rogers drilled in his brace-sealing goal to restore his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician tore off his winter coat, opened his arms and bellowed. The team continued to a 10th successive win and after failing to win any of their first six games, now sit only three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.

Are They Serious Hopefuls?

This is an exceptionally difficult proposition to resolve. History, the traditional standing of the club, argues against it. Moreover, they've rarely been entirely convincing in many games, while the victories have stacked up.

As per Opta, in only two games has the side had an expected goals figure significantly higher than their opponents. For a team which has strung together a ten-match winning streak, they look strangely fragile – however currently the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Winning Formula

The prevailing tactic appears to be to exchange chances with rivals and then rely on their star man to bail them out with two clinical strikes. This was the case away to Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and again versus Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal originated from a brilliant finish, bent just inside the upright from the corner of the box. For his second acted as a somewhat messier replica of goal number one capitalizing on a setup by his strike partner.

“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”

Can It Last?

Logic says not. Against United, the opposition had a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. They have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those fixtures.

Regression to the mean might be the greatest opponent Villa must confront over the coming weeks. The forward, surely, will not continue to blasting his shots into the top corner week in, week out.

A Case for Belief

Could it be a different scenario where, instead of results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures may yet return to peak condition.

• The main striker could start adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho could transform into the performer he resembled during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs are due to regain fitness, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable backline.

This could contain the potential of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on one man.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, this is a surprise. Nobody thought the team would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt earlier this season, nobody thought Rogers as the year closed would be spearheading a hunt for the title while looking like a crucial Three Lions star.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed exactly since it appears so improbable. When the match-winner faced the Villa faithful when the game ended orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.