Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

All

News

Sport

Culture

Lifestyle

Watkins' double helped Villa to an impressive win over Liverpool (AP)

Aston Villa have secured their place in next season’s Champions League after a commanding 4-2 victory over Liverpool, a result that also serves as a perfect send-off ahead of their Europa League final.

The win guarantees Unai Emery’s side a top-five finish in the Premier League with a game to spare, while leaving Liverpool’s European qualification hopes hanging by a thread.

Ollie Watkins netted a crucial double, bolstering his claim for an England World Cup squad spot, alongside impressive strikes from Morgan Rogers and John McGinn.…