Sheffield United set the pace this season and built up a six-point lead by the end of December.

Villa grew stronger towards the end of the season, losing just one game in their last 13, to leave United in second place by two points.

Villa finished their programme first, leaving a mathematical chance for the Blades if they scored plenty of goals in the last two games.

Billy Garraty, great-great grandfather of footballer Jack Grealish, was League top scorer this season.

There were debuts for Chris Mann (10), Jim Garfield, Michael Noon, Charlie McEleny and Alf Watkins.