Ollie Watkins fired a superb hat-trick for Unai Emery’s men with goals also for Jacob Ramsey, Douglas Luiz and an own goal from Brighton’s Pervis Estupinan. Albion briefly rallied after the break and pulled one back from Barcelona loanee Ansu Fati – his first for the club – but Brighton were way off the pace throughout.
The win moved Aston Villa up to fourth ahead of the 3pm kick-offs, while Brighton, who were third before today’s thrashing, will now look to Thursday’s Europa League clash at Marseille.
De Zerbi has made numerous changes to his starting XIs this term as he tries to manage his squad amid a hectic fixture schedule and injuries.
Here’s a full run down of the walking wounded at Brighton and when they are expected to return...
5. Jakub Moder - Knee ACL
Has not played for more than year and De Zerbi wants him back ASAP. Could still be two weeks or three away as yet. Photo: Warren Little
6. Adam Lallana - muscular
Another experienced player missing against Villa. Played the final 12 minutes at Chelsea but forced to sit out at Villa Park. Will hope to be fit for Thursday. Photo: Michael Regan