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Just 60 days prior when the young forward stood on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed as his coach scolded him over missing a through-ball. During that period, as the club endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear if his performances were a sign or the reason for the team's more general malaise.

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

On Sunday, though, the sideline response proved to be decidedly more positive. After the England international curled home his brace-sealing goal to restore Villa's lead, Emery ripped off his coat, opened his arms and roared. The Birmingham club continued to a 10th successive win and despite not winning their opening six matches, are somehow just three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Serious Title Contenders?

That’s a rather hard query to address. Past precedent, the traditional standing of the club, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they have not been completely commanding this season, while the victories have stacked up.

According to Opta, twice all season has the side had an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a team which has just won 10 in a row, the Villans look weirdly vulnerable – but right now the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy seems to be to engage in a shootout with rivals before hoping Rogers to rescue them with a couple of clinical strikes. This was the case at Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and once more versus the Red Devils.

His opener stemmed from a superb shot, arced precisely inside the upright from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal acted as a slight scruffier version of goal number one as he seized on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”

Is It Sustainable?

Logic says not. During the latest victory, the opponents registered a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. They have won each of their last eight by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those games.

A statistical correction might be the most significant challenge they have to face in the near future. Rogers, in all likelihood, will not continue to drilling the football past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Maybe there exists another reality in which, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures may yet return to peak condition.

• The centre-forward might resume finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho might become the force he showed in Germany.
• The injured centre-backs are due to come back from the treatment room, bolstering a periodically leaky defence.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a genuine bid, but they surely can continue to depend solely on one man.

Savoring the Moment

But then, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought the team would occupy third at Christmas. And certainly back in October, nobody thought the young forward as the year closed would be spearheading a title charge while establishing himself as a vital Three Lions star.

The current run is to be savoured for the very reason that it seems so surreal. As Rogers faced the home supporters when the game ended leading the celebrations, he seemed to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.