1. Rogers and Emery Combine for Heist
Are match outcomes sometimes deceive? That is the question. Villa's run of victories continued against Manchester United, accompanied by the nagging doubts. On paper, they were second best by multiple metrics – fewer shots (12-15), reduced ball control (43-57), not as many golden opportunities (2-3). As usual, the victory was a slender one. As usual, expected goals (xG) was unimpressed: according to data United edged it 1.31-1.02. Yet the reality is games are not won by xG. They are won by solid teamwork, shrewd management and individual talent – and Villa boast the complete package. Villa's emerging star might just be their sole standout, but he is performing like Father Christmas. The Spanish tactician is shrewd, battle-hardened, streets ahead of Ruben Amorim. Should Rogers have benefited from Leny Yoro’s naivety, it was likely because Emery had spotted that Yoro was playing out of position, and instructed his winger to take up a wide position, move infield and cause him problems. Talent and management, working together.
2. Persistent Problems for Amorim's United
Following United's victory over Brighton 4-2 last month, their fans rediscovered hope. They managed three league games on the bounce for the first time under the Portuguese coach. They had risen to fourth. And the wins were impressive victories – over Brighton (a traditionally tricky opponent), Liverpool (at Anfield!) and Sunderland (in front of their own fans, versus a newly-promoted side, but still – an untroubled victory). The goalkeeper was reassuring, their forward line sparked and morale was high. But then United went back to black. In a run of eight matches, a mere pair of successes, six disappointing results. Against Aston Villa they were the better team without ever appearing likely to triumph. Yes, the Brazilian scored a good goal, but he also missed a sitter. Yes, United were hit by fitness issues (to key players), but they gave away cheap scores. Following over a year in England, the coach continues to struggle with how to win consistently.
3. Below-Par Gunners Get on Their Grind
It was an evening fixture on the holiday period but a distinct lack of quality in the final third made for a drab affair. For Everton, the issue was predictable with creative forces absent, and their star man unable to spark an entire team on his own. In many respects it is surprising that David Moyes’s side occupied a European spot in the table recently given they have played the entire season without a reliable number nine. For Arsenal and their manager, while he enjoyed a merited victory and a return to the top of the table, the deficiency should be of similar concern given their designs on the Premier League. The manager claimed that winning margins will inevitably be more emphatic with dedication and persistence. 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 needing to win ugly.
4. Guardiola's Strict Festive Regime for Champions
During the holidays the Catalan coach will monitor the scales to ensure his Manchester City players have not overdone the festive fare. He revealed the team wanted to have a rest day after their recent victory but he declined because their display lacked quality. So it's recovery, sessions for the fringe men, and following a short break, then 48 hours of preparation for the next fixture. Guardiola detailed how they can get better. “My strength is deciphering what happens in the game, where are the spaces – if the players were in optimal spots, we could generate more chances.” Guardiola will also enjoy a rest: “I will be on vacation with the family for celebrations. I'm going to Barcelona – it's highly recommended, the food is excellent.”
5. A Costly Goal: Isak's Injury Mars Liverpool Win
Alexander Isak’s goal at Tottenham felt, for a fleeting moment, as a turning point. This was precisely the reason Liverpool splashed the cash for him to do, to break tight games with his clever positioning and composure, and the calmness with which he clipped in from good service boded superbly. So the scene of his substitution immediately, the victim of a reckless attempt, was a major worry for the Liverpool manager and disappointing for the spectator who would like to see such a gifted player reach his peak again. There are fears Isak has sustained a fractured leg and he likely faces a extended spell on the sidelines. It would be a major blow with Liverpool having snuck up on the Champions League places, putting together a six-game unbeaten run bookended by Isak’s first Premier League goals in their colours. Their fortunes this season appear tied up with those of their £125m investment.
6. Did Chelsea Get Away with One?
Managers often complain about contentious refereeing decisions as a means of deflecting media attention from matters they wish to avoid discussing. The numerous points Newcastle have squandered when ahead this season appears relevant. Their manager certainly did not seem too willing to mention that problematic pattern following his side’s collapse from a 2-0 lead against Chelsea in a game they had to settle for a point in. Yet the Magpies' boss was surely right to question a decision made by the referee not to award his team a penalty following a clear obstruction on their winger. With the score then 2-1, a spot-kick could have changed the narrative. Was the decision to offer the opposing player the leeway informed by past incidents for being expert at earning fouls and sometimes simulating? The take of a respected pundit was notable. “He anticipates the contact,” came the observation. “He knows the challenge is coming and he's ready. I think he's looking for the foul. But the force and aggression there … it's more than just defending.”
7. Wolves' Grim Relegation Reality
Brentford’s first away win this season spelled a welcome result for the Bees' boss. Instead of reveling in the win, Andrews spoke kindly about Wolves, the club he joined at 16. “I spent nine years here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is beyond dire; Opta state – perhaps generously – their likelihood of the drop at virtually certain, leaving only pride at stake beyond honour. A senior professional brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
