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It was 60 days in the past that the Villa attacker was standing on the Sunderland turf, looking confused as Unai Emery berated him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. Back then, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear if Rogers' form were a sign or the reason for the team's wider issues.

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

On Sunday, however, the manager's outburst proved to be decidedly more positive. As the in-form star drilled in his second strike to reinstate his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician discarded his winter coat, spread his arms and bellowed. The team continued to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win their opening six games, now sit a mere three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Title Contenders?

It remains a particularly tough proposition to address. The historical record, the traditional standing of the club, suggests not. Furthermore, their performances haven't been wholly dominant this season, while the wins have stacked up.

According to Opta, twice all season has the side posted an xG significantly higher than their opponents. For a club that have just won a ten-match winning streak, they appear weirdly vulnerable – however at the moment the margins are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

The current approach appears to be to exchange chances with an opponent and wait for Rogers to rescue them with some clinical strikes. This was the case away to Leeds, it occurred in London, and again versus the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal stemmed from a superb shot, arced right inside the post from a wide position. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of the opener capitalizing on a pass from Watkins.

“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.”

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, Manchester United managed more shots and more direct attempts. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those matches.

Regression to the mean might be the most significant challenge Villa must confront as the season progresses. Their key man, almost certainly, cannot maintain drilling his shots into the net's top corner indefinitely.

A Case for Belief

Could it be another reality whereby, instead of luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet return to peak condition.

• The main striker may begin to finding the net regularly.
• The attacking talent could transform into the performer he showed during his peak.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to come back from the treatment room, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable backline.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a title challenge, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on one man.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this is a surprise. Few believed Aston Villa would be third at Christmas. And without a doubt two months ago, nobody thought the midfielder now would be spearheading a championship pursuit and appearing as an essential player for the national team.

This remarkable period must be cherished exactly since it appears so improbable. When Rogers stood in front of the home supporters when the game ended leading the celebrations, he seemed to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. These runs of form do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.