1. Rogers and Emery Combine for Heist
Do the final scores tell the whole story? It's a valid query. The Villans' triumphant run was extended versus Manchester United, but so did the persistent questions. On paper, they were second best by a number of key indicators – less attempts (12-15), a smaller share of the ball (43-57), not as many golden opportunities (2-3). Once again, the victory was a slender one. In keeping with form, expected goals (xG) sided with the opposition: according to data United had the slight advantage 1.31-1.02. However, supporters understand games are not won by xG. They are won by cohesive units, shrewd management and moments of magic – and Villa have all three. Morgan Rogers could be considered their only star, but he is performing like Father Christmas. The Spanish tactician is wily, seasoned, significantly more advanced of his counterpart. If Rogers profited from a positional error, it was likely because the manager identified that Yoro was playing out of position, and told Rogers to begin on the flank, cut in and torment him. Individual brilliance and coaching, working together.
2. Persistent Problems for Amorim's United
Back in October after defeating Brighton 4-2 on 25 October, their fans felt optimism return. They had won three league games consecutively for the first time under their manager. Their position climbed to fourth. And the wins were impressive victories – over Brighton (a traditionally tricky opponent), Liverpool (at Anfield!) and Sunderland (at Old Trafford, facing a team fresh from the Championship, but still – a routine shutout). Senne Lammens looked solid, the attack was exciting and morale was high. But then United slipped into a slump. In a run of eight matches, only two victories, six missed opportunities. At Villa Park they were superior for large periods without ever appearing likely to triumph. Yes, their forward scored an excellent finish, but he also blazed over a simple chance. Yes, United were cursed by absentees (to important midfielders), but they were punished for defensive errors. After 13 months in England, the coach continues to struggle with how to win consistently.
3. Arteta's Men Win Ugly to Return to the Summit
It was an evening fixture on the holiday period but a distinct lack of quality in the attacking areas made for a drab affair. For Everton, the issue came as no surprise with creative forces absent, and their star man failing to inspire an entire team single-handedly. In many respects it is surprising that the Toffees were in fifth place in the table not long ago given they have played the entire season without a reliable number nine. For Arsenal and their manager, while he savoured a deserved win and a return to the top of the table, the flaw should be equally concerning given their designs on 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 elite players, while leaving exciting options on the bench, to be dependent on scrappy victories.
4. Pep's Christmas Weight Watch at City
On Christmas Day the City manager will conduct fitness tests to ensure his Manchester City players have not enjoyed excessive celebrations. Guardiola said his squad requested to have a rest day after their recent victory but he declined because their display lacked quality. So they will recuperate, work for those who didn't feature, and following a short break, then two days to prepare for the Nottingham Forest game. He explained how the side can improve. “I excel at analyzing what happens in the game, where are the spaces – if the players were in these positions, we could create more.” Pep also intends to enjoy a rest: “I have holidays with the family to relax. I'm going to Barcelona – it's a great city, the food is superb.”
5. Isak’s Injury Overshadows Big Moment
Alexander Isak’s goal at Tottenham felt, for a brief instant, as a turning point. This was precisely the reason Liverpool paid all that money for him to do, to decide close contests with his intelligent runs and finishing ability, and the confidence with which he clipped in from an incisive ball looked extremely positive. So the scene of his substitution immediately, due to a reckless attempt, was a huge concern for the Dutch coach and disappointing for the spectator who would like to see an extraordinary talent perform at his best again. Reports suggest Isak has picked up a serious leg injury and he probably endures a extended spell on the sidelines. It would be a significant setback with the Reds having quietly moved into the top four, putting together a six-game unbeaten run bookended by Isak’s first Premier League goals in their colours. Their campaign trajectory appear inextricably linked to those of their £125m investment.
6. Did Chelsea Get Away with One?
Managers often moan about controversial calls as a means of shifting the focus from matters they would prefer were not talked about. The 13 points Newcastle have dropped from winning positions this season is a prime example. Their manager certainly did not seem too willing to mention that unfortunate habit following his side’s collapse from a 2-0 lead against Chelsea in a game they ended up drawing. Yet Howe was surely correct to highlight a decision made by the on-field referee and VAR not to award his team a penalty following a clear obstruction on the England international. With the score then 2-1, a 12-yard award could have changed the narrative. Was the decision to offer the Chelsea defender the benefit of considerable doubt informed by Gordon’s reputation for being skilled at earning fouls and sometimes exaggerating? Analysis from a well-known analyst was notable. “He sees the challenge coming,” he said. “He knows the challenge is coming and he's ready. I think he’s ready to go down. But the strength of the challenge there … that’s not shielding the ball.”
7. Statistical Doom for Struggling Wolves
Brentford’s initial success on their travels this season spelled a welcome result for Keith Andrews. Rather than celebrate, Andrews expressed empathy for Wolves, the club he came through at. “A large chunk of my life was here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is beyond dire; statistical models state – possibly kindly – their probability of going down at virtually certain, leaving nothing to play for beyond professionalism. A senior professional brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
