Ederson
Important and brave save to spare Stones' blushes, and his long-range kicking led to Sterling's goal. 7
Joao Cancelo
Terrific defending to stop a promising Villa counter in second half, but not much to see in an attacking capacity. 7
John Stones
Sloppy pass handed Villa their best chance, but redeemed himself with a great block and some sharp defending after that. 6
Fernandinho
In his 200th league game, two bookings for tactical fouls saw a red card, but no real harm done. 6
Benjamin Mendy
Only fourth time he has played three consecutive matches, and he still looks stronger in the opposition half! 7
Ilkay Gundogan
Couple of brilliant defensive interventions to add to his usual game of dictating the flow of the game. 8
Kevin De Bruyne
Wicked cross turned into a goal. He was here, there and everywhere without ever truly hitting top gear. 7
David Silva
Should have scored in the first half, but he was always the man most likely to unlock a tight Villa defence. 7
Bernardo Silva
The magic is not flowing like it did last season, but he still works astoundingly hard and makes a sound contribution. 7
Gabriel Jesus
Scored in previous seven starts but had to be content with an important assist this time after atypical hard-working shift. 7
Raheem Sterling
Now has 13 goals in 14 games for the Blues, and his cute finish spoke of his confidence in front of goal these days. 8
Subs
Angelino
(for Mendy 73) Nice cameo. 7
Phil Foden
(for De Bruyne 76) Can do no wrong. 7
Sergio Aguero
(for Sterling 76) needs smaller shorts! 6
Not used: Bravo, Walker, Otamendi, Mahrez,
