It was a mixed and potentially pivotal week for Villa, who faced two fellow top-five contenders in Newcastle and Manchester City. The 4-1 thrashing of Newcastle continued a 16-game unbeaten streak in the Premier League at Villa Park in impressive style.

The Premier League is better off with Leeds United back after one of the most anodyne top-flight seasons in living memory.

Manchester United set another unwanted club record on Sunday after losing 1-0 to Wolverhampton. A 15th league loss of the season is the most United has suffered in any single campaign in the Premier League era and emphasizes the club's ongoing decline.

Liverpool have one hand on the Premier League trophy as they seek the solitary point they need against struggling Tottenham on Sunday that would guarantee a record-equalling 20th English title.AFP Sport looks at three talking points ahead of this weekend's action: Liverpool on the brink It is tough to see struggling Tottenham delaying Liverpool's title party at Anfield.

Fireworks exploded from the roof. Red smoke filled the air. Family members applauded as players, one by one, lifted the trophy. Yet Liverpool’s Premier League title-winning celebrations in 2020 could hardly be described as a party.