The most played game in English league history was a thrilling affair that saw Villa bounce back in great fashion after looking like they were about to lose two games in a row at home this season.

Spaniard Emery has done a remarkable job since taking over as coach from Steven Gerrard in October 2022, leading the team from the edge of the relegation zone to the top of the European table after a fourth-place finish last season.

Villa won the European Cup in 1982 and will fulfil their dream of competing with the continent’s elite again in three days’ time when they travel to Young Boys.

They prepared for this game by trying hard to beat an Everton side that was threatening to suffer a surprise away defeat, but Watkins ended an eight-game goalless streak by heading in and converting another opportunistic shot.

He could have completed his hat-trick, but his direct shot went wide of the post before fellow striker Duran stepped up to secure the win.

When Duran picked up the ball well in front of the goal, there seemed to be no danger, but he fired a powerful shot that landed in the corner of the net.

It was a goal that would have won any game and Villa moved up to third in the table, with only defeat to title contenders Arsenal marring their impressive record so far.