Aston Villa ratings

4-2-3-1

6 Orjan Nyland

The Norway international was given the nod ahead of Pepe Reina, yet had no chance for either goal.

6 Marvelous Nakamba

The midfielder’s job was to break up play in midfield and ensure Villa retained possession.

6 Frederic Guilbert

Gave Rodri far too much space for the second goal, but was involved in a fine second-half battle with Sterling.

6 Ahmed Elmohamady

Brought in to provide experience to the midfield, but his crossing was frequently wayward.

7 Bjorn Engels

Given the task of marking Aguero, he produced some outstanding blocks. Brilliantly denied by Bravo late on.

6 Jack Grealish

Desperate to provide the sparkle, but this was a rare afternoon where he struggled to take a grip of the game.

7 Tyrone Mings

Struggled early on, but then improved, with his positional sense and calmness on the ball helping Villa stem the tide.

6 Anwar El Ghazi

Linked up well with Grealish and produced the cross for Samatta’s goal, but faded in the second half.

5 Matt Targett

Caught out at the back post for the opening goal and was frequently given a torrid time by Foden.

6 Mbwana Samatta

The Tanzania international took his goal well, but Villa could not provide any more opportunities.

7 Douglas Luiz

Signed from City in the summer, he did impress with his breaks forward, but his decision-making was often awry.

Substitutions

Trezeguet (Elmohamady 70) Conor Hourihane (El Ghazi 70) Keinan Davis (Samatta 80). Not used Pepe Reina (g), Neil Taylor, Henri Lansbury, Ezri Konsa.