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It was two months in the past when the Villa attacker found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed while his coach berated him for failing to anticipate a through-ball. During that period, as the club failed to win in six, doubts remained if his performances were an indicator or the source for Villa's broader struggles.

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

This weekend, though, the touchline reaction proved to be far more favourable. When Rogers swept in his second strike to reclaim the lead for Villa, the boss ripped off his coat, threw his arms wide and roared. Villa marched on to ten wins in a row , after failing to win their opening six fixtures, now sit a mere three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Hopefuls?

That’s a particularly tough proposition to resolve. The historical record, the traditional standing of the club, indicates otherwise. Additionally, their performances haven't been wholly dominant in many games, while the victories have stacked up.

According to statistical analysis, on just two occasions have Villa registered an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a side that have put together 10 in a row, they appear weirdly vulnerable – however right now the tight outcomes are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

The prevailing tactic appears to be to exchange chances with the opposition and wait for their talisman to save the day with two precise efforts. This was the case away to Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and once more when facing Manchester United.

The initial strike stemmed from a superb shot, curled just inside the upright from the edge of the area. For his second acted as a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he pounced 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.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, the opposition had more shots and more shots on target. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those fixtures.

Regression to the mean might be the biggest rival they have to face over the coming weeks. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot maintain drilling the football into the net's top corner week in, week out.

A Case for Belief

Perhaps there is an alternative path in which, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet return to peak condition.

• Ollie Watkins may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent may rediscover the force he was during his peak.
• The defensive duo will eventually regain fitness, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

This could contain the potential of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

Yet, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely two months ago, nobody thought the midfielder by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while looking like an essential England player.

The current run must be cherished precisely because it appears so improbable. As the hero positioned himself before the home supporters when the game ended leading the celebrations, he appeared to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These runs of form are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.