1. A Tactical Coup: How Rogers and Emery Outfoxed United
Do the final scores tell the whole story? That is the question. The Villans' triumphant run persisted with a win over Manchester United, but so did the lingering concerns. Statistically, they were inferior by a number of key indicators – less attempts (12-15), a smaller share of the ball (43-57), fewer big chances (2-3). Once again, the victory was by a narrow margin. As usual, statistical models was unimpressed: analysis indicates 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. Villa's emerging star might just be their primary talisman, but his contributions are coming as a timely gift. Unai Emery is wily, seasoned, streets ahead of the United boss. Should Rogers have benefited from a positional error, that was probably because the coach had detected that his opponent was uncomfortable, and told Rogers to start wide, drive inside and torment him. Talent and management, in perfect harmony.
2. Persistent Problems for Amorim's United
Following United's victory over Brighton 4-2 in late October, their fans felt optimism return. They secured three league games on the bounce for the initial occasion under their manager. They had risen to fourth. And the wins were all good ones – over Brighton (a traditionally tricky opponent), Liverpool (on the road!) and Sunderland (in front of their own fans, against a promoted club, but still – a routine shutout). Senne Lammens looked solid, their forward line sparked and there was a positive mood. But then United slipped into a slump. Eight games, only two victories, six disappointing results. Against Aston Villa they were superior for large periods without ever appearing likely to triumph. Yes, the Brazilian scored a good goal, but he also blazed over a simple chance. Yes, United were cursed by absentees (to important midfielders), but they gave away cheap scores. Since his arrival in England, the coach continues to struggle with how to secure victories.
3. Arsenal Grind Out a Vital Victory
It was an 8pm kick-off on the festive weekend but a glaring absence of finesse in the attacking areas made for a drab affair. For Everton, the issue was expected with key attackers absent, and the experienced winger unable to spark an entire team by himself. In many respects it is astonishing that David Moyes’s side sat fifth in the table recently given they have played the entire season without a decent striker. For Arsenal and their manager, while he savoured a deserved win and a return to the top of the table, the deficiency should be equally concerning given their ambitions for the Premier League. The manager claimed that winning margins will inevitably grow more comfortable with hard work and perseverance. But it is somewhat premature in the season for a team that can start with world-class talents, while leaving talented players on the bench, to be needing to win ugly.
4. Pep's Christmas Weight Watch at City
During the holidays the City manager will check the weights to ensure his Manchester City players have not overdone the festive fare. He revealed the team wanted to take a day off after their 3-0 triumph but the request was denied because they didn’t play good enough. So it's recovery, sessions for the fringe men, and after three days off, then 48 hours of preparation for the upcoming match. He explained how improvements can be made. “I’m good at reading what happens in the game, identifying weaknesses – if the players were in these positions, we could generate more chances.” Pep also intends to enjoy a rest: “I'm taking a break with the family for celebrations. I'm going to Barcelona – it's highly recommended, the food is top.”
5. Isak’s Injury Overshadows Big Moment
Alexander Isak’s goal at Tottenham felt, for a brief instant, like a statement. This was exactly what Liverpool paid all that money for him to do, to decide close contests with his clever positioning and composure, and the assurance with which he converted from good service was highly promising. So the sight of him departing immediately, the victim of a ill-judged tackle, was a significant blow for the Liverpool manager and disappointing for the spectator who would like to see such a gifted player hit full tilt again. There are fears Isak has suffered a broken leg and he probably endures a long time on the sidelines. It would be a major blow with the Reds having quietly moved into the Champions League places, putting together a solid undefeated streak highlighted by Isak’s maiden league strikes in their colours. Their prospects appear tied up with those of their £125m investment.
6. Penalty Debate Rages After Newcastle Draw
Managers often moan about debatable rulings as a means of deflecting media attention from matters they want to keep private. The numerous points Newcastle have dropped from winning positions this season is a prime example. Eddie Howe 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 the Magpies' boss was surely correct to highlight a decision made by the referee not to award his team a penalty following a clear obstruction on the England international. With the score then 2-1, a penalty could have altered the outcome. Was the decision to offer the Chelsea defender the leeway informed by past incidents for being very clever at earning fouls and sometimes going down too easily? The take of a former England striker was notable. “He sees the challenge coming,” came the observation. “He's prepared for the impact 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 initial success on their travels this season spelled joy for their manager. 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 truly alarming; statistical models state – maybe optimistically – their chances of relegation at virtually certain, leaving only pride at stake beyond pride. A senior professional brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
