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1. Rogers and Emery Combine for Heist

Are match outcomes tell the whole story? One must ask. The Villans' triumphant run persisted with a win over Manchester United, but so did the persistent questions. They were the lesser team by a number of key indicators – less attempts (12-15), reduced ball control (43-57), a scarcity of clear opportunities (2-3). Once again, the victory was a slender one. In keeping with form, statistical models painted a different picture: according to data United edged it 1.31-1.02. Yet the reality is games are determined by more than statistics. They are won by solid teamwork, shrewd management and moments of magic – and Villa possess each ingredient. The young forward may be their sole standout, but his contributions are coming as a timely gift. Unai Emery is wily, seasoned, significantly more advanced of the United boss. The fact Rogers took advantage from a positional error, that was probably because the coach had detected that his opponent was uncomfortable, and directed his attacker to start wide, move infield and cause him problems. Individual brilliance and coaching, combining effectively.

2. Amorim Continues to Fall Short

Following United's victory over Brighton 4-2 on 25 October, their fans felt optimism return. They managed three league games on the bounce for the maiden instance under Ruben Amorim. They ascended to fourth. And the wins were impressive victories – over Brighton (a side they often struggle against), Liverpool (away!) and Sunderland (at home, versus a newly-promoted side, but still – an untroubled victory). The goalkeeper was reassuring, their forward line sparked and morale was high. But then United slipped into a slump. In a run of eight matches, only two victories, six disappointing results. In the recent fixture they were superior for large periods without ever seeming like taking three points. Yes, Matheus Cunha scored a fine effort, but he also failed to convert a golden opportunity. Yes, United were cursed by absentees (to key players), but they were punished for defensive errors. Following over a year in England, Amorim still hasn’t worked out how to secure victories.

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

It was an evening fixture on the Saturday before Christmas but a glaring absence of finesse in the final third made for a forgettable match. For Everton, the issue was expected with creative forces absent, and the experienced winger failing to inspire an entire team single-handedly. In many respects it is remarkable that the Toffees were in fifth place in the table not long ago given they have played all term without a proven goalscorer. For Arsenal and Mikel Arteta, while he relished a hard-fought three points and ascending to the summit of the table, the flaw should be just as worrying given their designs on the Premier League. Arteta insisted that victories will inevitably become bigger with dedication and persistence. But it is fairly soon in the season for a team that can start with international stars, while leaving quality substitutes on the bench, to be relying on grinding out wins.

4. Pep's Christmas Weight Watch at City

Over the festive period the Catalan coach will monitor the scales to ensure his Manchester City players have not overdone the festive fare. He explained the players asked to enjoy a break after their 3-0 triumph but the request was denied because they didn’t play good enough. So they will recuperate, work for those who didn't feature, and post-holiday, then two days to prepare for the upcoming match. Guardiola detailed how the side can improve. “My strength is deciphering 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'm going to Barcelona – it's highly recommended, the food is excellent.”

5. Liverpool's Joy Tempered by Isak Blow

Alexander Isak’s goal at Tottenham felt, for a fleeting moment, like a statement. This was the very purpose Liverpool paid all that money for him to do, to break tight games with his movement and range of finishing, 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 reckless attempt, was a significant blow for the Dutch coach and frustrating for fans who would like to see such a gifted player reach his peak again. It is believed Isak has picked up a serious leg injury and he likely faces a extended spell on the sidelines. It would be a significant setback with Slot’s team having quietly moved into the Champions League places, putting together a six-game unbeaten run bookended by Isak’s maiden league strikes in their colours. Their prospects appear heavily dependent on those of their record signing.

6. Penalty Debate Rages After Newcastle Draw

Managers often lament controversial calls as a means of deflecting media attention from matters they want to keep private. The 13 points Newcastle have dropped from winning positions this season appears relevant. Eddie Howe certainly did not seem overly keen to mention that problematic pattern following his side’s inability to hold onto a 2-0 lead against Chelsea in a game they had to settle for a point in. Yet Howe 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 Anthony Gordon. With the score then 2-1, a 12-yard award could have swung the momentum. Was the decision to offer the defender the leeway informed by Gordon’s reputation for being very clever at drawing contact and sometimes exaggerating? Analysis from a former England striker was revealing. “He sees the challenge coming,” came the observation. “He expects the tackle and he’s waiting 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 initial success on their travels this season spelled relief for their manager. Rather than celebrate, Andrews expressed empathy for Wolves, the club he joined at 16. “My formative years were here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is increasingly desperate; Opta state – possibly kindly – their chances of relegation at 99.17%, leaving nothing to play for beyond pride. A veteran player brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly