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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 continued against Manchester United, accompanied by the lingering concerns. They were the lesser team by a number of key indicators – less attempts (12-15), a smaller share of the ball (43-57), a scarcity of clear opportunities (2-3). Typically, the victory was a slender one. In keeping with form, statistical models was unimpressed: according to data United had the slight advantage 1.31-1.02. However, supporters understand games are not won by xG. They are won by solid teamwork, astute coaching and individual talent – and Villa boast the complete package. Morgan Rogers could be considered their primary talisman, but his contributions are coming with festive regularity. The Spanish tactician is crafty, experienced, significantly more advanced of Ruben Amorim. Should Rogers have benefited from a positional error, it was likely because Emery had spotted that his opponent was uncomfortable, and instructed his winger to take up a wide position, cut in and cause him problems. Individual brilliance and coaching, in perfect harmony.

2. Persistent Problems for Amorim's United

Back in October after defeating Brighton 4-2 last month, their fans rediscovered hope. They secured three league games consecutively for the maiden instance under the Portuguese coach. Their position climbed to fourth. And the wins were solid results – over Brighton (a side they often struggle against), Liverpool (away!) and Sunderland (in front of their own fans, against a promoted club, but still – a routine shutout). Their keeper provided stability, the attack was exciting and optimism was growing. But then United went back to black. In a run of eight matches, only two victories, six missed opportunities. Against Aston Villa they were the more dominant side without ever seeming like taking three points. Yes, Matheus Cunha scored a good goal, but he also failed to convert a golden opportunity. Yes, United were cursed by absentees (to influential figures), but they were punished for defensive errors. Following over a year in England, Amorim still hasn’t worked out how to claim three points.

3. Arsenal Grind Out a Vital Victory

It was a late Saturday start on the festive weekend but a glaring absence of finesse in the attacking areas made for a sobering evening. For Everton, the issue was predictable with offensive players absent, and their star man unable to spark an entire team by himself. In many respects it is remarkable that Everton occupied a European spot in the table not long ago given they have played the entire season without a decent striker. For Arsenal and the Spanish coach, while he relished a hard-fought three points and a return to the top of the table, the problem should be just as worrying given their title aspirations in the Premier League. He stated that winning margins will inevitably become bigger with hard work and perseverance. 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 needing to win ugly.

4. Guardiola’s Festive City Investigations

Over the festive period the Catalan coach will monitor the scales to ensure his Manchester City players have not enjoyed excessive celebrations. Guardiola said the team wanted to have a rest day after their recent victory but he declined because their display lacked quality. So it's recovery, training for the squad players, and following a short break, then 48 hours of preparation for the upcoming match. Guardiola detailed how improvements can be made. “I’m good at reading what happens in the game, identifying weaknesses – if the players were in the right areas, we could generate more chances.” Guardiola will also enjoy a rest: “I have holidays with the family and champagne. I'll visit Barcelona – it's highly recommended, the food is excellent.”

5. Liverpool's Joy Tempered by Isak Blow

Isak's clinical effort at Tottenham felt, for a fleeting moment, like a statement. This was the very purpose Liverpool splashed the cash for him to do, to break tight games with his clever positioning and composure, and the calmness with which he finished from good service looked extremely positive. So the scene of his substitution immediately, the victim of a reckless attempt, was a major worry for the Dutch coach and frustrating for fans who would like to see a top-class forward hit full tilt again. There are fears Isak has picked up a serious leg injury and he could be in for a lengthy period on the sidelines. It would be a major blow with Liverpool having steadily climbed towards the top four, putting together a six-game unbeaten run bookended by Isak’s maiden league strikes in their colours. Their fortunes this season appear inextricably linked to those of their record signing.

6. A Contentious Call Saves Chelsea

Managers often moan about debatable rulings as a means of deflecting media attention from matters they want to keep private. The 13 points Newcastle have failed to secure from leading situations this season appears relevant. Eddie Howe certainly did not seem particularly eager to mention that costly trend following his side’s failure to protect a 2-0 lead against Chelsea in a game they ended up drawing. Yet the Magpies' boss 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 spot-kick could have altered the outcome. Was the decision to offer the opposing player the doubt informed by Gordon’s reputation for being skilled at drawing contact and sometimes exaggerating? The take of a well-known analyst was revealing. “He anticipates the contact,” he said. “He knows the challenge is coming and he’s waiting for it. I think he intends to hit the deck. But the strength of the challenge there … that’s not shielding the ball.”

7. A 99.17% Certainty

Brentford’s first away win this season spelled joy for Keith Andrews. Rather than celebrate, Andrews sympathised with Wolves, the club he started his career with. “My formative years were here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is beyond dire; Opta state – maybe optimistically – their chances of relegation at 99.17%, leaving only pride at stake beyond honour. A veteran player brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly