HE'S THRILL FODEN!

NO Erling Haaland, no problem for Manchester City, particularly when you have Phil Foden.

- DAVID MCDONNELL

With Haaland rested on the bench, England midfielder Foden stepped up to score his second hat-trick of the season and take his tally for the campaign to a career-best 21.

And to think there was even a debate over whether Foden would be an automatic starter for England at Euro 2024 this summer. The 23-year-old was simply unplayable here, his goals keeping City on course for an historic fourth straight league title with a win that showed their intent to push all the way for another treble.

Just 24 hours after hailing Haaland as the best striker in the world, in response to Roy Keane's criticism, Pep Guardiola sprung a surprise by naming him among his subs.

Kevin De Bruyne was also on the bench as the Etihad boss made four changes to the side held to a 0-0 draw by title rivals Arsenal at the weekend.

Villa boss Unai Emery, onetime manager of Arsenal, was forced into a change of goalkeeper. Emiliano Martinez was taken unwell during the warmup, meaning deputy Robin Olsen was brought into the starting line-up.