Aston Villa stormed into the automatic promotion spots on Sunday afternoon, after a comfortable victory over fierce local rivals Birmingham City saw Steve Bruce’s side leapfrog Derby County into second place.

Winger Albert Adomah opened the scoring in the 60th minute to give the hosts the lead, before midfielder Conor Hourihane’s dipping volley from distance ensured the points remained in the claret and blue side of the West Midlands metropolis.

Manager Bruce has been away from the side for much of the week following the sad loss of his father, but was welcomed back to the club with a resounding display by his side.

A number of stellar displays across the park catapulted Villa into their highest position since their relegation in 2016, with winger Jack Grealish particularly performing well on the flanks.

The local lad has excelled since returning from injury, and took to Twitter to declare his delight at yet another three points…