1. The Villa Heist: Rogers & Emery's Masterclass
Are match outcomes sometimes deceive? It's a valid query. Villa's run of victories was extended versus Manchester United, accompanied by the lingering concerns. On paper, they were second best by multiple metrics – fewer shots (12-15), less possession (43-57), a scarcity of clear opportunities (2-3). As usual, the victory was by a narrow margin. As usual, statistical models sided with the opposition: reports suggest United were narrowly ahead 1.31-1.02. But, as every fan knows games are determined by more than statistics. They are won by solid teamwork, astute coaching and sparkling skill – and Villa have all three. Morgan Rogers could be considered their sole standout, but he is performing with festive regularity. The Villa manager is wily, battle-hardened, significantly more advanced of the United boss. If Rogers profited from a defensive lapse, it was likely because the coach had detected that his opponent was uncomfortable, and told Rogers to start wide, drive inside and torment him. Individual brilliance and coaching, combining effectively.
2. Amorim Continues to Fall Short
Back in October after defeating Brighton 4-2 last month, their fans rediscovered hope. They had won three league games consecutively for the first time under their manager. They had risen to fourth. And the wins were all good ones – over Brighton (a side they often struggle against), Liverpool (away!) and Sunderland (at Old Trafford, facing a team fresh from the Championship, but still – an untroubled victory). Senne Lammens looked solid, the attack was exciting and there was a positive mood. But then United went back to black. Eight games, two wins, six missed opportunities. Against Aston Villa they were superior for large periods without ever looking like winning. Yes, their forward scored a good goal, but he also missed a sitter. Yes, United were cursed by absentees (to key players), but they gave away cheap scores. Since his arrival in England, the coach continues to struggle with how to secure victories.
3. Arteta's Men Win Ugly to Return to the Summit
It was an 8pm kick-off on the Saturday before Christmas but a noticeable shortage of fluency in the opposition box made for a sobering evening. For Everton, the issue came as no surprise with key attackers absent, and Jack Grealish unable to spark an entire team on his own. In many respects it is surprising that Everton occupied a European spot in the table not long ago given they have played the entire season without a reliable number nine. For Arsenal and the Spanish coach, while he savoured a deserved win and a return to the top of the table, the deficiency should be of similar concern given their ambitions for the Premier League. Arteta insisted that victories will inevitably be more emphatic with hard work and perseverance. But it is somewhat premature in the season for a team that can start with international stars, while leaving quality substitutes on the bench, to be relying on grinding out wins.
4. Pep's Christmas Weight Watch at City
During the holidays Pep Guardiola will check the weights to ensure his Manchester City players have not overdone the festive fare. He revealed his squad requested to enjoy a break after their 3-0 triumph but the request was denied because the performance was insufficient. So it's recovery, sessions for the fringe men, and after three days off, then 48 hours of preparation for the next fixture. Guardiola detailed how they can get better. “I’m good at reading what happens in the game, where are the spaces – if the players were in the right areas, we could generate more chances.” Pep also intends to enjoy a rest: “I'm taking a break with the family to relax. A trip to Barcelona is planned – I recommend it, the food is superb.”
5. Isak’s Injury Overshadows Big Moment
Isak's clinical effort at Tottenham felt, for a fleeting moment, like an arrival. This was the very purpose Liverpool invested heavily for him to do, to unlock stubborn defences with his intelligent runs and finishing ability, and the assurance with which he clipped in from an incisive ball boded superbly. So the image of him leaving immediately, following a rash challenge, was a huge concern for the Dutch coach and frustrating for fans who would like to see a top-class forward perform at his best again. Reports suggest Isak has sustained a fractured leg and he probably endures a extended spell on the sidelines. It would be a major blow with Liverpool having steadily climbed towards the upper echelons, putting together a solid undefeated streak featuring Isak’s initial goals in their colours. Their fortunes this season appear heavily dependent on those of their £125m investment.
6. Penalty Debate Rages After Newcastle Draw
Managers often lament debatable rulings as a means of deflecting media attention from matters they would prefer were not talked about. The numerous points Newcastle have failed to secure from leading situations this season appears relevant. The Newcastle boss certainly did not seem overly keen to mention that problematic pattern following his side’s inability to hold onto a 2-0 lead against Chelsea in a game they had to settle for a point in. Yet Newcastle’s manager was surely correct to highlight a decision made by the match officials not to award his team a penalty following a blatant body check on their winger. With the score then 2-1, a penalty could have altered the outcome. Was the decision to offer the defender the doubt informed by Gordon’s reputation for being skilled at winning penalties and sometimes exaggerating? Analysis from a former England striker was revealing. “Gordon’s waiting,” came the observation. “He expects the tackle and he's ready. I think he’s ready to go down. But the strength of the challenge there … it constitutes a foul.”
7. A 99.17% Certainty
Brentford’s initial success on their travels this season spelled relief for Keith Andrews. More than just enjoying the victory, Andrews expressed empathy for Wolves, the club he started his career with. “I spent nine years here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is increasingly desperate; Opta state – possibly kindly – their likelihood of the drop at 99.17%, leaving only pride at stake beyond honour. A veteran player brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
