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1. A Tactical Coup: How Rogers and Emery Outfoxed United

Do the final scores sometimes deceive? It's a valid query. The Villans' triumphant run was extended versus Manchester United, accompanied by the lingering concerns. Statistically, they were inferior by a number of key indicators – less attempts (12-15), less possession (43-57), a scarcity of clear opportunities (2-3). Typically, the victory was a slender one. As usual, statistical models sided with the opposition: analysis indicates United were narrowly ahead 1.31-1.02. However, supporters understand games are not won by xG. They are won by solid teamwork, shrewd management and moments of magic – and Villa have all three. Villa's emerging star might just be their sole standout, but he is performing as a timely gift. The Villa manager is shrewd, seasoned, streets ahead of his counterpart. Should Rogers have benefited from a positional error, it was likely because the coach had detected that Yoro is not a right-back, and directed his attacker to start wide, drive inside and exploit the space. Talent and management, working together.

2. Persistent Problems for Amorim's United

Following United's victory over Brighton 4-2 last month, their fans felt optimism return. They managed three league games on the bounce for the first time under their manager. They had risen 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). The goalkeeper was reassuring, Bryan Mbeumo offered threat and optimism was growing. But then United returned to poor form. In a run of eight matches, only two victories, six disappointing results. Against Aston Villa they were superior for large periods without ever looking like winning. Yes, Matheus Cunha scored an excellent finish, but he also blazed over a simple chance. Yes, United were hit by fitness issues (to influential figures), but they conceded soft goals. Since his arrival in England, the manager has yet to solve how to win consistently.

3. Arteta's Men Win Ugly to Return to the Summit

It was an evening fixture on the festive weekend but a distinct lack of quality in the opposition box made for a drab affair. For Everton, the issue was predictable with key attackers absent, and their star man failing to inspire an entire team by himself. In many respects it is remarkable 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 the Spanish coach, while he enjoyed a merited victory and ascending to the summit of the table, the flaw should be equally concerning given their designs on the Premier League. He stated that positive results will inevitably grow more comfortable with hard work and perseverance. But it is fairly soon in the season for a team that can start with international stars, while leaving talented players on the bench, to be relying on grinding out wins.

4. Pep's Christmas Weight Watch at City

During the holidays the Catalan coach will check the weights to ensure his Manchester City players have not enjoyed excessive celebrations. He explained the team wanted to enjoy a break after their latest win but he refused because they didn’t play good enough. So the schedule involves rehabilitation, work for those who didn't feature, and post-holiday, then brief training for the Nottingham Forest game. The manager outlined how they can get better. “My strength is deciphering what happens in the game, locating the gaps – if the players were in optimal spots, we could create more.” Pep also intends to enjoy a rest: “I will be on vacation with the family for celebrations. I'll visit Barcelona – it's a great city, the food is top.”

5. Liverpool's Joy Tempered by Isak Blow

The Swedish striker's finish at Tottenham felt, for a fleeting moment, as a turning point. This was the very purpose Liverpool invested heavily for him to do, to decide close contests with his intelligent runs and finishing ability, and the confidence with which he converted from an incisive ball was highly promising. So the image of him leaving immediately, due to a reckless attempt, was a significant blow for the Dutch coach and a shame for any neutral who would like to see such a gifted player reach his peak 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 the Reds having steadily climbed towards the top four, putting together a solid undefeated streak bookended by Isak’s maiden league strikes in their colours. Their prospects appear inextricably linked to those of their record signing.

6. Penalty Debate Rages After Newcastle Draw

Managers often lament contentious refereeing decisions as a means of deflecting media attention from matters they want to keep private. The numerous points Newcastle have squandered when ahead this season seems a case in point. The Newcastle boss certainly did not seem too willing to mention that unfortunate habit following his side’s inability to hold onto a 2-0 lead against Chelsea in a game they ended up drawing. Yet Newcastle’s manager was surely correct to highlight a decision made by the on-field referee and VAR not to award his team a penalty following a blatant body check on their winger. With the score then 2-1, a 12-yard award could have changed the narrative. Was the decision to offer the defender the doubt informed by the player's history for being expert at earning fouls and sometimes exaggerating? Analysis from a well-known analyst was revealing. “Gordon’s waiting,” came the observation. “He's prepared for the impact and he’s waiting for it. I think he’s ready to go down. But the strength of the challenge there … that’s not shielding the ball.”

7. Wolves' Grim Relegation Reality

Brentford’s first away win this season spelled relief for their manager. Instead of reveling in the win, Andrews sympathised with Wolves, the club he started his career with. “I spent nine years here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is increasingly desperate; statistical models state – maybe optimistically – their likelihood of the drop at 99.17%, leaving nothing to play for beyond pride. A senior professional brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly