Premier League talking points: Declan Rice is two players in one; United embarrass themselves - again

Beyond the occasional acts of brilliance with which the Red Devils have rescued games this season, they’re a lazy, tactically confused, poorly organised, poorly motivated, mid-table side

Manchester United's Cristiano Ronaldo stands dejected following the Premier League defeat to Manchester City at Old Trafford. Picture: Martin Rickett/PA

Dean Smith: Yesterday’s hero, today’s zero

It’s not long since Dean Smith, a local lad and fan of Aston Villa, was being hailed by fans as a hero for a mid-table finish last season. Here was a man who really cared about the club, who had the club’s best interests at heart. But now? Get him out. There is no patience or tolerance for failure. All those fine words about being proud to be managed by such a man are dumped. They were shallow and meaningless.