Are Arsenal cheating and are United better without the preening peacock?

Manchester United's Raphael Varane celebrates after team-mate Bruno Fernandes scores their side's second goal of the game during the Premier League match at Villa Park, Birmingham. Picture  Nick Potts/PA Wire. 

Are clubs cheating?

The North London derby was called off because Arsenal told the Premier League they didn’t have 13 outfield players and a goalkeeper available. The Premier League agreed and made a statement to that effect. It was not true. For a start, the Gunners have 17 players out on loan, not to mention a substantial U-23 squad. What are all these players there for if not to play football? Leeds United had two injuries in their game against West Ham and fielded two teenage subs. If they can do it, why couldn’t Arsenal? It looks very like Arsenal are cheating, or, if you’re feeling generous, exploiting a loophole. Nah, let's call it cheating.