Let's assume for a minute Arsenal beat Villa tonight by, say 2 goals. That would keep Villa 3 points behind Watford with a worse goal difference of 2.
Fast forward to Sunday and if Arsenal beat Watford, which would be expected Villa, if they beat us would have the same number of points as Watford and, at the very least, an identical goal difference but with an advantage because they have scored more goals which kicks in if goal difference is identical.
So here's the conspiracy theory and it's a scenario, given the dwarf's personality, I could seriously imagine happening. Imagine this conversation in the boardroom pre match
Villa Chairman: David, old boy, what's your price for giving us the 3 points today
Dwarf: Gonna cost a lot if you drop old boy
Villa Chairman: Doesn't bear thinking about. You still got that Cayman Islands account ?
Dwarf: One in Bermuda as well old man.
Villa Chairman: How does £10 million sound?
Dwarf: Not as sweet as £20 mill.
Villa Chairman: Meet me halfway. £15 million. Shake on it now and the money'll be in warmer climates within minutes.
Dwarf: Pleasure doing business with you. See you next season. Now excuse me, I just have to speak to my manager. MOYSIE--A Word in your shell like old chap.
Would anyone consider this a plausible possibility. There is precedent. 1994 Everton 3 Wimbledon 2. Or so it is often alleged.
Certainly wouldn't surprise me.