Pundit backs Aston Villa for Champions League despite Newcastle defeat – but on one condition

Aston Villa suffered a humbling 3-1 defeat at home to Newcastle United, ending a 17-match unbeaten run in the Premier League on home soil.

Fabian Schar scored two goals in quick succession as Villa trailed at the break. Alex Moreno was unable to stop the visitor’s third as he clattered into the post in an attempt to block Miguel Almiron’s effort.

Ollie Watkins then reduced Villa’s deficit after converting from Leon Bailey’s cross. He scored his 50th Premier League goal but ultimately, Unai Emery’s side were unable to fight back to avoid defeat at Villa Park for the first time in 11 months.

Despite the defeat, former Villa striker Peter Crouch believes his old side can still claim a place in Europe – but only as long as there is an extra place outside of the usual four on offer at the end of the season. “The home form has been absolutely [up until this point] insane this season,” he said. “Fantastic and if there’s an extra Champions League place for them, why can’t they get in it? They have proven they have the ability to be in there.

Jermaine Jenas added: “I think that progression in Villa’s season was when Man City came here and they’ve struggled. They are built to get themselves in the Champions League and when they do, it’s going to be pretty epic.”