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Just two months ago when the Villa attacker found himself on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered as the Villa manager admonished him for failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. At that point, as the club went six without a win, doubts remained whether Rogers' form were a sign or the reason of Villa's wider issues.

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

On Sunday, in contrast, the sideline response was entirely much more joyous. When Rogers curled home his brace-sealing goal to reinstate his side's advantage, Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The Birmingham club marched on to ten wins in a row , having failed to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, now sit a mere three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Challengers?

This is a rather hard question to answer. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, argues against it. Additionally, their performances haven't been wholly dominant this season, even as the wins have stacked up.

According to Opta, in only two games has the team registered an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a club which has put together a ten-match winning streak, they look curiously susceptible – however currently the tight outcomes are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy appears to be to engage in a shootout with an opponent and wait for their talisman to bail them out with two crisp finishes. This was the case at Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and once more versus Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal originated from an exquisite effort, arced just inside the post from a wide position. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica 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.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opposition managed more efforts and more efforts on goal. They have won each of their last eight by just one goal. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those fixtures.

A statistical correction may well be the most significant challenge they have to face as the season progresses. Their key man, surely, cannot maintain blasting the ball past despairing goalkeepers forever.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be another reality whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players might still rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward might resume finding the net regularly.
• The attacking talent may rediscover the performer he was during his peak.
• The defensive duo are set to come back from the treatment room, bolstering a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the seeds of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on one man.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, nobody expected this. It seemed improbable the team would sit in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt earlier this season, few could imagine the young forward now would be spearheading a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a crucial England player.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As Rogers positioned himself before the North End at the final whistle orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods do not happen often and must be appreciated.