The Christmas spirit is alive and well as Alyson Rudd, Gregor Robertson and Molly Hudson dial in from all parts of the country to join Tom Clarke for an assessment of the festive fixture list. 

An amazing turn around at Old Trafford but seasonal struggles for Villa and Newcastle. Nuno has made a good start at Forest and Luton have racked up back to back wins. Who’ll be top on Jan 1st, is Alyson Dom Solanke's lucky charm? Finally, some end of season awards.

See you in the new year.

Timeline:

5’ Christmas quiz questions

Man Utd v Villa

7’ Villa gifted it to Utd.

10’ Man Utd looked good and played well, despite going two down. Garnacho very threatening.

11’ return of Eriksen important. Important for Hojlund to score. All with Ratcliffe watching on.

13’ At west Ham Man Utd had been lifeless. They summoned their reserves for Villa.

14’ huge relief for Ten Hag. Important result, but will it be enough and is it a turning point.

15’ Jim Ratcliffe announcement odd. Naff to own only 25%. Can’t do too much because of FFP

Newcastle v Forest

22’ Bad run and some shock results for Newcastle. Is it a reality check, a reflection of where they are or just injuries and fatigue?

23’ Does Eddie Howe have a target on his back?

26’ buoyance lacking, atmosphere suffering, Eddie Howe looks tired.

28’ players benefited for a managerial change. Shame for Cooper, but Nuno has had two good performances.

30’ Elanga was fabulous and will be important in the future. Should he have stayed at Utd?

32’ Nuno really pleased to take the job, lots of potential. Clean slate for players like Joe Worrel

35’ Niuno’s Wolves team were good to watch.

Bournemouth

38’ Dom Solanke pulling up tress, Ally is his good luck charm.

42’ Iraola has proved his worth. Topic of the year seems to be managers with strong philosophies.

43’ Dom Solanke now knocking on the door of Harry Kane back up, along side Tony, Watkins and Wilson.

Luton

46’ Great team to watch. Involved in some thrilling matches, played well, even in games they have lost.

47’ signings have added quality. Discipline, shape and great work ethic.

Liverpool

49’ top of the league. But injuries mounting and Salah and endo about to depart for international competition.

50’ Klopp good at integrating fringe players. No need for signings.

51’ do Liverpool have deepest squad in the league? Elliot, Quensah, Jones all very much part of first team squad.

End of year awards

Match of the year, goal of the year, player of the year.

See you in 2024.

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