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It was 60 days ago that the Villa attacker stood on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered while the Villa manager berated him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. At that point, as the club went six without a win, doubts remained whether Rogers' form were a sign or the reason for Villa's wider issues.

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

This weekend, however, the manager's outburst was much more joyous. As Rogers drilled in his second to reclaim the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician tore off his jacket, opened his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club continued to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning any of their first six games, now sit only three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.

Is This Team Serious Title Contenders?

That’s an exceptionally difficult query to address. The historical record, the perceived status of Villa, argues against it. Moreover, their performances haven't been entirely convincing in many games, even as the wins have accumulated.

Per statistical analysis, in only two games has the side registered an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a team that have just won 10 in a row, Villa seem curiously susceptible – but at the moment the margins are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

The current approach seems to be to engage in a shootout with an opponent and wait for their talisman to bail them out with some precise efforts. This was the case at Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and once more against the Red Devils.

The initial strike stemmed from a brilliant finish, arced just inside the post from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal proved to be a slightly less clean iteration of the opener capitalizing on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“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?

Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, Manchester United managed a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. Villa have won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those fixtures.

A reversion to average could be the biggest rival Villa will encounter over the coming weeks. Rogers, surely, will not continue to thrashing the ball past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

Reasons for Optimism

Perhaps there is another reality where, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures may yet find their top level.

• The main striker might resume finding the net regularly.
• The attacking talent could transform into the force he showed during his peak.
• The defensive duo are due to regain fitness, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

This could contain the possibility of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can continue to depend solely on a single individual.

Enjoying the Ride

But then, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely back in October, nobody thought Rogers as the year closed would be leading a title charge and appearing as a vital England player.

This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it seems so surreal. When Rogers positioned himself before the home supporters when the game ended leading the celebrations, it was clear to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells do not happen often and must be appreciated.