Sheff Utd 0-5 Aston Villa - analysis

BBC Sport's Harry Poole

Sheffield United fans were left fearing a repeat of September's humiliating 8-0 defeat by Newcastle as they watched their side be completely overwhelmed by Aston Villa.

Newcastle did not score their fourth until the 56th minute on that occasion. At Bramall Lane on Saturday night, that was the scoreline with just half an hour gone.

The home supporters made their feelings clear as many headed for the exits after Youri Tielemans' fine finish made it 4-0, and although the situation did not worsen before half-time the whistle was greeted with boos.

That Villa's fifth immediately after the restart did not lead to a significantly more damaging collapse was of little consolation, and the nature of the defeat will do nothing to aid the Blades' belief that they can become the first side to survive from the desperate position they find themselves in.

No team has had as few as 10 points at this stage of the season and avoided relegation, nor has any side in Premier League history conceded as many goals (59) after 23 games.

The Blades now face a crucial trip to fellow promoted side Luton Town next weekend, with the Hatters sitting 10 points above them outside the relegation places.