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A mere eight weeks in the past when the young forward was standing on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered as Unai Emery berated him for failing to anticipate a through-ball. Back then, as Villa went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether his displays were a sign or a cause of the side's wider issues.

“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 touchline reaction was entirely far more favourable. After the England international swept in his brace-sealing goal to restore the lead for Villa, the boss tore off his winter coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The team marched on to ten wins in a row , despite not winning their opening six fixtures, find themselves just three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Is This Team Legitimate Title Contenders?

It remains an exceptionally difficult question to resolve. Past precedent, the traditional standing of Villa, suggests not. Moreover, their performances haven't been entirely convincing in many games, while the positive results have stacked up.

According to the data, on just two occasions has the side posted an xG more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a club that have just won a ten-match winning streak, the Villans appear curiously susceptible – yet right now the tight outcomes are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy looks like to engage in a shootout with an opponent and then rely on their star man to rescue them with some precise efforts. This occurred against Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and once more against the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal originated from a superb shot, bent right inside the upright from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he seized 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.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, Manchester United registered more shots and more efforts on goal. They have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all but one of those fixtures.

A statistical correction could be the most significant challenge the club will encounter as the season progresses. The forward, surely, cannot maintain drilling the ball past despairing goalkeepers forever.

Reasons for Optimism

Perhaps there is an alternative path where, 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 scoring again.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the player he resembled in Germany.
• The injured centre-backs are due to return from injury, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable defence.

Maybe within that lies the possibility of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this is a surprise. Few believed Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And certainly earlier this season, few could imagine the young forward by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a title charge while looking like a crucial England player.

This winning streak must be cherished precisely because it appears so improbable. When the match-winner faced the Villa faithful after the match orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells do not happen often and must be appreciated.