City tighten Premier League title grip

Manchester City FC beat Aston Villa FC 4-0 tonight to ensure that victory in their final game of the season this weekend will see them crowned Premier League champions, while Sunderland AFC guaranteed top-flight survival.

Spurred on by seeing challengers Liverpool FC let slip a three-goal lead to draw at Crystal Palace FC on Monday evening, City won their game in hand to move two points clear at the top of the table. Manuel Pellegrini's side had dominated yet struggled to break down visitors Villa until the 64th minute when Pablo Zabaleta's low cross was turned in by Edin Džeko, who soon after tapped in his 16th goal of the season from close range.

Substitute Stevan Jovetić hit a third a minute from time and Yaya Touré added a fourth – City's 100th Premier League goal of the campaign – with a trademark surging run and composed finish. City's goal difference, which is superior by 13 to Liverpool's, means a point at home to West Ham United FC on Sunday should suffice for a second league crown in three seasons, even if the second-placed Reds defeat Newcastle United FC at Anfield.

Meanwhile, in the north-east, Sunderland overcame West Bromwich Albion FC 2-0 with strikes from Jack Colback and Fabio Borini to secure their top-flight status for next season. West Brom can only be relegated if they lose at home to Stoke City FC on the last day and seemingly doomed Norwich City FC thrash Arsenal FC while overturning a goal difference of 17.