1. Rogers and Emery Combine for Heist
Can results sometimes deceive? That is the question. Aston Villa's winning streak persisted with a win over Manchester United, accompanied by the persistent questions. On paper, they were second best by a number of key indicators – less attempts (12-15), less possession (43-57), fewer big chances (2-3). As usual, the victory was a slender one. Consistently, the xG metric painted a different picture: according to data United edged it 1.31-1.02. However, supporters understand games are not won by xG. They are won by collective effort, astute coaching and sparkling skill – and Villa have all three. The young forward could be considered their sole standout, but he’s delivering as a timely gift. The Villa manager is wily, seasoned, five years ahead of his counterpart. If Rogers profited from Leny Yoro’s naivety, this was almost certainly because the coach had detected that Yoro is not a right-back, and told Rogers to take up a wide position, drive inside and torment him. Skill and strategy, in perfect harmony.
2. Amorim Continues to Fall Short
Back in October after defeating Brighton 4-2 in late October, their fans rediscovered hope. They secured three league games consecutively for the first time under Ruben Amorim. They had risen to fourth. And the wins were all good ones – over Brighton (a traditionally tricky opponent), Liverpool (away!) and Sunderland (at Old Trafford, versus a newly-promoted side, but still – a routine shutout). The goalkeeper was reassuring, their forward line sparked and optimism was growing. But then United slipped into a slump. Over the next eight fixtures, two wins, six games without a win. At Villa Park they were superior for large periods without ever looking like winning. Yes, the Brazilian scored a fine effort, but he also missed a sitter. Yes, United were unlucky with injuries (to key players), but they were punished for defensive errors. Since his arrival 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 festive weekend but a distinct lack of quality in the attacking areas made for a sobering evening. For Everton, the issue came as no surprise with creative forces absent, and their star man struggling to lift an entire team single-handedly. In many respects it is surprising that the Toffees occupied a European spot in the table recently given they have played all term without a decent striker. For Arsenal and Mikel Arteta, while he savoured a deserved win and reclaiming first place of the table, the deficiency should be equally concerning given their title aspirations in the Premier League. He stated that winning margins will inevitably grow more comfortable with graft and determination. But it is somewhat premature in the season for a team that can start with world-class talents, while leaving exciting options on the bench, to be dependent on scrappy victories.
4. Guardiola's Strict Festive Regime for Champions
Over the festive period the City manager will check the weights to ensure his Manchester City players have not overdone the festive fare. He revealed the players asked to take a day off after their latest win but he declined because they didn’t play good enough. So it's recovery, work for those who didn't feature, and after three days off, then two days to prepare for the upcoming match. He explained how improvements can be made. “I excel at analyzing what happens in the game, locating the gaps – if the players were in optimal spots, we could generate more chances.” Guardiola will also enjoy a rest: “I'm taking a break with the family and champagne. I'll visit Barcelona – it's a great city, the food is excellent.”
5. Isak’s Injury Overshadows Big Moment
The Swedish striker's finish at Tottenham felt, for a brief instant, like an arrival. 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 converted from good service boded superbly. So the scene of his substitution 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. There are fears Isak has suffered a broken leg and he probably endures a long time on the sidelines. It would be a huge loss with Liverpool having steadily climbed towards the top four, putting together a six-game unbeaten run highlighted by Isak’s initial goals in their colours. Their prospects appear inextricably linked to those of their record signing.
6. Penalty Debate Rages After Newcastle Draw
Managers often complain about controversial calls as a means of shifting the focus from matters they would prefer were not talked about. The numerous points Newcastle have squandered when ahead this season seems a case in point. Eddie Howe certainly did not seem particularly eager 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 right to question a decision made by the match officials 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 swung the momentum. Was the decision to offer the defender the benefit of considerable doubt informed by Gordon’s reputation for being very clever at winning penalties and sometimes exaggerating? Analysis from a respected pundit was notable. “Gordon’s waiting,” 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 constitutes a foul.”
7. A 99.17% Certainty
Brentford’s first away win this season spelled relief for Keith Andrews. More than just enjoying the victory, Andrews spoke kindly about Wolves, the club he came through at. “I spent nine years here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is increasingly desperate; statistical models state – maybe optimistically – their likelihood of the drop at virtually certain, leaving little tangible to fight for beyond pride. A experienced defender brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
