James Milner: A quiet night for the England international, who struggled to make an impact from out wide. Has looked best this season when deployed in a more central role. 5/10David Silva: The Spaniard looked silky smooth playing just off Dzeko, sliding the ball through for Zabaleta to cross for the opener. A constant threat all night. 7/10Samir Nasri: The Frenchman could easily have found the scoresheet against Villa. Missed a golden chance at the end of the first half from just four yards out. 5/10Edin Dzeko: The worry before the game was the absence of Sergio Aguero, but Dzeko more than filled his boots. Two goals for the Bosnian, who has now scored 26 in all competitions for City this season. 9/10SubstituesStevan Jovetic: Came on for Milner in the 60th minute when City were still chasing an opening goal. Has been a bit part player this season, with injuries taking their toll. Took his goal well and made a good impact. 7/10Fernandinho: The central midfielder came on with 15 minutes left in place of Silva, as Pellegrinis side looked to see out the match. Made little impact in what has been a brilliant first season for the Brazilian. 6/10Alvaro Negredo: Just the five minutes for Negredo last night, who replaced match winner Dzeko. At one point the former Sevilla man was ahead of the Bosnian in the pecking order, but his form has subdued since January. 6/10
Simon is an NCTJ qualified sports journalist. He has conducted interviews with Tony Adams and Peter Shilton, while also having work published in The Daily Telegraph and The Sun. Follow him on Twitter via @sr_collings.
