Phil Foden scores screamer to complete brilliant hat-trick against Aston Villa as Man City keep up pressure in the title race

Phil Foden showed why he has long been regarded as one of the finest young players in world football as he completed a wonderful hat-trick with a stunning strike against Aston Villa on Wednesday.

City were drawing 1-1 with Villa when Foden put them back in front with a fine free-kick and the Englishman doubled his side's lead with a neat finish in the second half. 

However, it was the third that truly showed what a special player he is and got viewers around the world out of their seats.

Foden won the ball back outside the Villa area before unleashing a thunderous left-footed strike that flew into the top right corner past a motionless Robin Olsen.

The effort elicited jubilant scenes from both Foden's team-mates and the Etihad faithful.

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Foden's treble kept City's hopes of retaining the Premier League title very much alive.

It was his 21st goal this season for City across all competitions and the England international left the field to raucous applause and a standing ovation when he was substituted. 

Arsenal climbed above Liverpool to claim top spot on 68 points with a 2-0 victory over Luton Town.

City are third, level on 67 points with Liverpool who can move back to the summit with a home win over Sheffield United on Thursday.