The Premier League’s middle is where the juice remaining in the season is likely to be squeezed from. Saturday night the Gtech was recreated as grindhouse, two teams scratching and scraping at each other, all sinew and sweat.

For Unai Emery, playing Champions League football while aiming for the top five resembles building an aeroplane in mid-flight. To maintain the dream state that being in the competition has given fans and staff alike this season, Aston Villa must improve their away form. With his team having previously failed to win after Champions League away trips, the winner from Ollie Watkins was vital for the domestic challenge ahead. It pulled Chelsea and Manchester City within striking distance. “This three points gives us confidence, the belief to train to compete for a European position,” said the satisfied Basque manager. “We are trying to get ­balance in the league.”