Cum grano salis: this is the Latin phrase from which we derive "a pinch of salt".

It means one should allow for considerable exaggeration.

With that in mind, have Aston Villa over-reacted to Arsene Wenger's comments that they played a "long ball" game during the scoreless draw with Arsenal in midweek?

Manager Martin O'Neill described Wenger's remarks as an "appalling insult".

Now this from his central defender James Collins: "They were ridiculous comments [by Wenger].

"I don’t think he has any right saying that about teams. It’s the same on the pitch, you sort of get the impression playing against them that you can’t tackle them.

"The comments he has made are so stupid it’s unbelievable. If we played long balls we wouldn’t be in the position we’re in. Obviously the manager is angry with the comments as well and we can’t believe what he’s said.

"I have never been in a team where we’ve played better football. We create chances, it’s one of the most bizarre comments I’ve ever heard.

"He’s got a bit of a reputation for coming out with odd comments now and again so you just have to take it with a pinch of salt really."

As odd comments go, that last one's right up there itself.

If Collins had said that last sentence and nothing else it would have made sense. True, Wenger has made odd comments, and probably you shouldn't take any notice of them.

But it sounds like an irate Collins had already poured quite a bit more than a dash of sodium chloride over Wenger's somewhat meaningless remark.

Aston Villa appear to be touchy on the subject. But Wenger wasn't comparing them to Joe Kinnear's 1990s Wimbledon team, who made a living out of lobbing high balls up to John Fashanu.

Wenger was actually crediting Villa with launching sharp counter attacks by playing the ball early up to Emile Heskey and Gabby Agbonlahor. Long balls, in the air, on the ground, whichever was necessary.

Seems like a sensible thing to do when Arsenal have pushed forward in numbers.

On Villa's top-four credentials, Wenger also said: "I wish them to have a good run now because they are quality. They are well-organised and have a strong spirit. They are very strong physically and the four in midfield do not stop running and all these players can score goals, so they have a chance. I think they have a very good chance but you have seven teams for four places."

But this wasn't quoted in the media. Regardless, you can be sure Wenger won't be invited to sit above the salt next time he visits Villa Park.