James Milner delivered another reminder why he should be part of England’s World Cup squad by inspiring Aston Villa to a comfortable 3-0 home win over Hull which maintained their European push.
Milner set up the opening goal for central defender Richard Dunne and scored the second himself before half-time with an exquisite lob.
John Carew added a third from the penalty spot two minutes from time.
To make matters worse for the Tigers, midfielder Jimmy Bullard had to be substituted after 18 minutes through injury to his left knee, which has been responsible for lengthy lay-offs in the past.