Aston Villa continued their march towards the Sky Bet Championship automatic promotion spots with a hard-fought victory over Sunderland on Tuesday evening, with Steve Bruce’s side running out 2-1 winners at Villa Park.

Goals from Albert Adomah and Josh Onomah put the hosts firmly in control, before a Lewis Grabban consolation goal set up a nervy finish in the West Midlands.

Villa held on for the three points, meaning the former Premier League regulars move to within five points of the top two.

The Villains have been in wonderful form following a slow start to the season, and look set to challenge local rivals Wolverhampton Wanderers for the title this term.

Injuries to key men including Jonathan Kodjia and John Terry had raised questions as to whether the squad would be able to cope with the pair’s loss, but Bruce’s men have answered their critics, picking up back-to-back wins following the duo’s absence from the side.

Chairman Tony Xia took to Twitter to declare that ‘a win is a win’ following the uninspiring victory, urging his side to improve ahead of Saturday’s must-win tie against playoff chasing Ipswich Town.

Fans responded to the Chinese businessman’s rallying cry, claiming all that matters at this stage are the priceless points on offer…