Newcastle ran out 3-0 winners at St James’ Park but the afternoon wasn’t without its drama after Jhon Duran saw red for a stamp on Fabian Schar’s back in the 32nd minute before tempers boiled over into the tunnel at half-time.

Follow live coverage as Newcastle United face Aston Villa today in the Premier League. Another top-flight season will be covered in full right here with The Independent, as reigning champions Manchester City look to make it an unprecedented five titles in a row come the end of 2024/25.

Aston Villa host Manchester City when seventh in the English Premier League table meets fifth on Saturday. Pep Guardiola's visitors are struggling to get their title defense back on track while Unai Emery's hosts have been erratic of late.

The 2024-25 Premier League season is just nearing the halfway point - but the data experts are already predicting how the final table will shape up. Newcastle United are riding high at the moment after the 3-0 victory over Aston Villa at St James’ Park on Boxing Day moved them up to fifth in the table.

This is how the Premier League form table looks on Saturday. Worth a look for all Newcastle United fans. Eddie Howe’s team now facing Manchester United next in the Premier League. A massive week or so in general coming up for Newcastle United.