1. Rogers and Emery Combine for Heist
Are match outcomes sometimes deceive? That is the question. Aston Villa's winning streak was extended versus Manchester United, but so did the persistent questions. They were the lesser team by several measures – less attempts (12-15), less possession (43-57), a scarcity of clear opportunities (2-3). Typically, the victory was tightly contested. As usual, expected goals (xG) was unimpressed: according to data United had the slight advantage 1.31-1.02. But, as every fan knows games are decided on the pitch, not on spreadsheets. They are won by solid teamwork, shrewd management and sparkling skill – and Villa have all three. Morgan Rogers could be considered their sole standout, but his contributions are coming as a timely gift. The Villa manager is shrewd, battle-hardened, significantly more advanced of the United boss. The fact Rogers took advantage from Leny Yoro’s naivety, this was almost certainly because the manager identified that Yoro is not a right-back, and told Rogers to start wide, drive inside and exploit the space. Skill and strategy, in perfect harmony.
2. Amorim Continues to Fall Short
Back in October after defeating Brighton 4-2 last month, their fans rediscovered hope. They secured three league games on the bounce for the first time under Ruben Amorim. Their position climbed to fourth. And the wins were solid results – over Brighton (a traditionally tricky opponent), Liverpool (away!) and Sunderland (at home, versus a newly-promoted side, but still – an untroubled victory). Their keeper provided stability, the attack was exciting and there was a positive mood. But then United returned to poor form. Over the next eight fixtures, only two victories, six games without a win. Against Aston Villa they were the better team without ever seeming like taking three points. Yes, Matheus Cunha scored a good goal, but he also failed to convert a golden opportunity. Yes, United were cursed by absentees (to important midfielders), but they gave away cheap scores. Following over a year in England, Amorim still hasn’t worked out how to secure victories.
3. Arsenal Grind Out a Vital Victory
It was an 8pm kick-off on the Saturday before Christmas but a noticeable shortage of fluency in the attacking areas made for a forgettable match. For Everton, the issue came as no surprise with key attackers absent, and the experienced winger struggling to lift an entire team on his own. In many respects it is astonishing that David Moyes’s side occupied a European spot in the table not long ago given they have played the entire season without a proven goalscorer. For Arsenal and Mikel Arteta, while he savoured a deserved win and reclaiming first place of the table, the problem should be just as worrying given their designs on the Premier League. He stated 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 dependent on scrappy victories.
4. Pep's Christmas Weight Watch at City
Over the festive period Pep Guardiola will check the weights to ensure his Manchester City players have not enjoyed excessive celebrations. He revealed his squad requested to take a day off after their recent victory but he declined because the performance was insufficient. So it's recovery, work for those who didn't feature, and following a short break, then 48 hours of preparation for the next fixture. He explained how the side can improve. “I excel at analyzing what happens in the game, identifying weaknesses – if the players were in the right areas, we could be more potent.” Guardiola will also enjoy a rest: “I have holidays with the family and champagne. A trip to Barcelona is planned – it's a great city, the food is top.”
5. Liverpool's Joy Tempered by Isak Blow
Isak's clinical effort at Tottenham felt, for a glorious few seconds, like an arrival. This was the very purpose Liverpool splashed the cash for him to do, to break tight games with his intelligent runs and finishing ability, and the assurance with which he converted from a neat pass was highly promising. So the sight of him departing immediately, due to a reckless attempt, was a significant blow for the Liverpool manager and a shame for any neutral who would like to see an extraordinary talent perform at his best again. It is believed Isak has sustained a fractured leg and he likely faces a lengthy period on the sidelines. It would be a huge loss with Liverpool having snuck up on the Champions League places, putting together a solid undefeated streak bookended by 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 moan about controversial calls as a means of diverting the narrative from matters they would prefer were not talked about. The numerous points Newcastle have squandered when ahead this season appears relevant. Eddie Howe certainly did not seem overly keen to mention that problematic pattern following his side’s failure to protect a 2-0 lead against Chelsea in a game they ended up drawing. Yet Howe 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 penalty could have changed the narrative. Was the decision to offer the opposing player the leeway informed by past incidents for being very clever at earning fouls and sometimes exaggerating? Analysis from a former England striker was notable. “He sees the challenge coming,” came the observation. “He's prepared for the impact and he braces for it. I think he's looking for the foul. But the strength of the challenge there … it's more than just defending.”
7. Wolves' Grim Relegation Reality
Brentford’s maiden victory on the road this season spelled relief for their manager. Instead of reveling in the win, Andrews expressed empathy for Wolves, the club he came through at. “I spent nine years here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is increasingly desperate; Opta state – maybe optimistically – their probability of going down at 99.17%, leaving nothing to play for beyond honour. A veteran player brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
