The cameras lingered on crestfallen Aston Villa faces. One half of Wembley was despondent and increasingly empty. Supporters were leaving early and, such were the queues for the exits, many had their backs turned as Ismaila Sarr’s second goal — Crystal Palace’s third — went in.

In fact, Crystal Palace - who beat Villa 3–0 at Wembley - could inflict further damage if they win the final against either Forest or Manchester City. If Palace were to lift the FA Cup, and remain outside the top five, they would take the Europa League place awarded to the winning side at Wembley Stadium.