Both sides pressed for a winner in the second half but the game looked like it was heading for a draw that would have arguably suited both sides, until a late, late Matheus Nunes goal sealed three vital points for Manchester City, a result that takes them up to third place.

When you are as expressive on the touchline as Pep Guardiola, visual evidence can be enough to gauge the importance of an occasion. Make no mistake, this win was big. "You don't have to be a scientist to realise that we were playing against Aston Villa,

Manchester City beat Aston Villa in a direct battle for a UEFA Champions League spot next season at the Etihad Stadium thanks to a late Matheus Nunes goal.City have now won three Premier League