1. Rogers and Emery Combine for Heist
Can results sometimes deceive? One must ask. The Villans' triumphant run continued against Manchester United, alongside the persistent questions. Statistically, they were inferior by multiple metrics – fewer shots (12-15), a smaller share of the ball (43-57), fewer big chances (2-3). Typically, the victory was tightly contested. In keeping with form, the xG metric was unimpressed: according to data United edged it 1.31-1.02. But, as every fan knows games are not won by xG. They are won by collective effort, tactical brilliance and individual talent – and Villa boast the complete package. The young forward might just be their primary talisman, but he’s delivering like Father Christmas. The Spanish tactician is crafty, seasoned, streets ahead of the United boss. The fact Rogers took advantage from a defensive lapse, this was almost certainly because the manager identified that his opponent was uncomfortable, and instructed his winger to begin on the flank, cut in and torment him. Individual brilliance and coaching, combining effectively.
2. Persistent Problems for Amorim's United
Following United's victory over Brighton 4-2 last month, their fans rediscovered hope. They had won three league games consecutively for the first time under the Portuguese coach. They had risen to fourth. And the wins were all good ones – over Brighton (one of their many bogey teams), Liverpool (at Anfield!) and Sunderland (at Old Trafford, against a promoted club, but still – an untroubled victory). Their keeper provided stability, the attack was exciting and morale was high. But then United went back to black. In a run of eight matches, only two victories, six games without a win. At Villa Park they were the more dominant side without ever looking like winning. Yes, their forward scored a fine effort, but he also missed a sitter. Yes, United were hit by fitness issues (to influential figures), but they were punished for defensive errors. After 13 months in England, the manager has yet to solve how to claim three points.
3. Below-Par Gunners Get on Their Grind
It was a late Saturday start on the festive weekend but a glaring absence of finesse in the opposition box made for a drab affair. For Everton, the issue came as no surprise with offensive players absent, and the experienced winger failing to inspire an entire team by himself. In many respects it is surprising that the Toffees occupied a European spot in the table recently given they have played the entire season without a proven goalscorer. For Arsenal and their manager, while he relished a hard-fought three points and reclaiming first place of the table, the flaw should be of similar concern given their title aspirations in the Premier League. The manager claimed that victories will inevitably grow more comfortable with graft and determination. But it is fairly soon in the season for a team that can start with elite players, 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 the City manager will monitor the scales to ensure his Manchester City players have not overdone the festive fare. He revealed the players asked to have a rest day after their 3-0 triumph but he refused 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. The manager outlined how the side can improve. “My strength is deciphering what happens in the game, locating the gaps – if the players were in these positions, we could generate more chances.” The boss also plans to enjoy a rest: “I'm taking a break with the family for celebrations. A trip to Barcelona is planned – I recommend it, the food is excellent.”
5. A Costly Goal: Isak's Injury Mars Liverpool Win
Isak's clinical effort at Tottenham felt, for a brief instant, as a turning point. This was exactly what Liverpool paid all that money for him to do, to unlock stubborn defences with his clever positioning and composure, 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 ill-judged tackle, was a major worry for the Dutch coach and disappointing for the spectator who would like to see an extraordinary talent reach his peak again. It is believed Isak has picked up a serious leg injury and he probably endures a extended spell on the sidelines. It would be a major blow with Slot’s team having snuck up on the upper echelons, putting together a six-game unbeaten run bookended by Isak’s maiden league strikes in their colours. Their fortunes this season appear heavily dependent on those of their record signing.
6. A Contentious Call Saves Chelsea
Managers often lament debatable rulings as a means of deflecting media attention from matters they wish to avoid discussing. The numerous points Newcastle have squandered when ahead this season is a prime example. The Newcastle boss 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 Newcastle’s manager was surely justified in criticising a decision made by the on-field referee and VAR not to award his team a penalty following a blatant body check on Anthony Gordon. With the score then 2-1, a 12-yard award could have altered the outcome. Was the decision to offer the defender the benefit of considerable doubt informed by the player's history for being skilled at winning penalties and sometimes going down too easily? Analysis from a respected pundit was revealing. “He anticipates the contact,” he said. “He's prepared for the impact and he’s waiting for it. I think he intends to hit the deck. But the strength of the challenge there … it constitutes a foul.”
7. Wolves' Grim Relegation Reality
Brentford’s maiden victory on the road this season spelled relief for the Bees' boss. More than just enjoying the victory, Andrews sympathised with Wolves, the club he joined at 16. “I spent nine years 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 pride. A experienced defender brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
