BIRMINGHAM — When you say it out loud it sounds a bit wild but when you think about it, it really isn’t: Aston Villa should be Premier League title contenders next season. Even the most ardent Villa supporter may raise an eyebrow at that statement, but why?

Villa’s pursuit for a return to the Champions League through a top-five finish in the Premier League takes a back seat as they head to Wembley.

Man City vs Aston Villa LIVE!The race for Champions League qualification is the sole focus tonight as Manchester City and Aston Villa meet at the Etihad Stadium. With the top five in the Premier League all qualifying for Europe’s top table for the first time next season,