Frank Lampard marked his 500th Premier League start with a goal against Villa

Frank Lampard celebrated his 500th Premier League start with a trademark strike as Chelsea crushed Aston Villa at Stamford Bridge.

The England midfielder was given a rousing reception by the Blues faithful as he captained his team to an emphatic 8-0 victory. The result moved Chelsea up to third in the table.

The highlight came in the second half when Lampard drilled home superbly from outside the area to put Chelsea four up to underline their dominance.

The 34-year-old was then given a standing ovation by the home crowd when he was substituted shortly after - no doubt to keep him fit and ready for a packed Christmas programme.

Other goals came from Fernando Torres, David Luiz, Branislav Ivanovic, Ramires (2), Oscar and Eden Hazard while Chelsea also fielded Three Lions defenders Ashley Cole and Gary Cahill in a hugely convincing win.

Earlier in the day five England internationals featured in Sir Alex Ferguson's Manchester United side as they drew 1-1 at Swansea.

The Premier League leaders are now four points clear at the top of the table; but it could have been better for United, who created a string of good chances in the second half and felt unfortunate not to take one of them.

Michael Carrick came closest to scoring a winner when his powerful header crashed against the crossbar midway through the second half.

Ashley Young also had a goalbound effort blocked brilliantly by Ben Davies minutes later.

Wayne Rooney, Tom Cleverly and Phil Jones were the other England stars on show for United, who are yet again Christmas number one.