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A mere 60 days in the past that the young forward was standing on the Sunderland turf, looking confused as Unai Emery scolded him over not reading a through-ball. Back then, with the team failed to win in six, doubts remained if his performances were a symptom or the reason for the team's broader struggles.

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

In the latest match, however, the sideline response was entirely far more favourable. As Rogers drilled in his brace-sealing goal to restore Villa's lead, the boss discarded his winter coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club were on their way to ten wins in a row , despite not winning any of their first six games, are somehow only three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Title Contenders?

This is an exceptionally difficult question to resolve. The historical record, the traditional standing of the club, argues against it. Additionally, their performances haven't been completely commanding during this run, while the wins have accumulated.

As per the data, in only two games has the team posted an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a team who have put together ten consecutive victories, Villa seem strangely fragile – however right now the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Reliant Strategy

The prevailing tactic appears to be to engage in a shootout with an opponent and wait for Rogers to save the day with some crisp finishes. This was the case away to Leeds, it happened in London, and it happened versus the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal came from an exquisite effort, bent right inside the post from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal acted as a slight scruffier version of goal number one as he seized 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.”

Is It Sustainable?

Reason suggests otherwise. In the recent win, Manchester United registered a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those fixtures.

A statistical correction might be the most significant challenge the club must confront over the coming weeks. Rogers, almost certainly, cannot maintain blasting the football into the top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is an alternative path in which, rather than luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures might still return to peak condition.

• Ollie Watkins may begin to finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho could transform into the performer he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs are set to regain fitness, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defence.

This could contain the possibility of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.

Savoring the Moment

But then, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And certainly back in October, few could imagine the midfielder now would be leading a hunt for the title and appearing as a vital player for the national team.

The current run should be enjoyed precisely because it feels so unlikely. When the hero faced the Villa faithful after the match leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. Such periods do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.