1998: Paul Merson signs for Aston Villa
Paul Merson left Middlesbrough and joined John Gregory's Aston Villa.
The midfielder scored on his debut four days later, hitting the opener in a 2-0 home win over Wimbledon.
He spent four seasons at Villa Park, making 117 Premier League appearances and scoring 18 times, while being named the PL Player of the Month for February 2000.
He moved on to Portsmouth in August 2002.
1998: Leeds United 3-0 Southampton
Leeds United moved to the top of the table after a convincing home win over bottom side Southampton.
The hosts took the lead through a 38th-minute Scott Marshall own goal, and Ian Harte and Clyde Wijnhard then struck in the second half.
Leeds claimed top spot with eight points, although they were overtaken by Liverpool and Aston Villa the following day, leaving them third.
Southampton remained without a point at the foot of the table.
