Newcastle United demolished Aston Villa at St James' Park this afternoon in a 4-0 victory which has seen them retain their place inside the top four.

Eddie Howe will be thrilled that the Magpies are now unbeaten in 15 out of their 16 outings so far this season in all competitions and are currently on an eight-game run without a defeat in the Premier League.

The hosts dominated the game against Villa on all fronts with 60% possession, far more shots on goal (20 v 3), more big chances created (6 v 0) and better pass completion (79% v 73%).

The first half was relatively uneventful until the final moments when Ashley Young committed a handball in the box, which led to the first goal converted in the game, with Callum Wilson scoring from the penalty spot in the sixth minute of stoppage time.

In the second half, it was clear pretty quickly that Newcastle were not satisfied with just a one-goal swing as Wilson netted his second of the game in the 56th minute, followed by another goal just three minutes later from Joelinton.

The fourth and final nail in the coffin for Villa came when the bang in-form Miguel Almiron found the net to secure a 4-0 victory in the 67th minute, set up by Wilson, the Newcastle striker already on a brace, netting his sixth goal in as many games.

Although Wilson will likely steal the headlines for his ferocity in front of goal this afternoon, there was one player who was Howe's unsung hero throughout the game.

Kieran Trippier captained Newcastle in his 300th English league appearance and put on an outstanding performance of which he can be proud, along with the milestone.

The 32-year-old right-back - who was dubbed a "big threat" by football analyst Mark Oldacres - took 87 touches, completed four key passes and delivered one assist, while also making two tackles and two clearances and creating two big chances for his team in his exemplary 90-minute performance.

Gareth Southgate was in attendance at St James' Park this afternoon and the England manager will surely be impressed with the right-back's form, so it will be no surprise whatsoever if he is selected to join the squad next month in Qatar.

Newcastle are showing no signs of slowing down and are starting to look a real threat in contention for a Champions League spot for next season if they continue to play the way that they have over the coming weeks and months.