After struggling earlier in the season, Villa is now up to fifth in the standings and in contention to qualify for the Europa League.
João Félix was sent off on his Chelsea debut for a studs-first lunge as his new team lost 2-1 at Fulham in the Premier League to fall deeper into crisis on Thursday.
Aleksandar Mitrovic put Fulham ahead twice, threatening a major upset, but Darwin Nunez showed just why Liverpool spent big on him.
Manchester United put up a fine display at Old Trafford to advance to the semifinals of the FA Cup with a 3-1 win over Fulham that keeps its three-pronged trophy pursuit on track.
While Aston Villa beat Southampton by a solitary goal for their second win this season, Fulham fought back for a 3-2 win at Nottingham Forest.
Brentford strengthened its bid for Europe by winning a feisty west London derby against Fulham 3-2 in the English Premier League.
