Liverpool faces another big test of its title credentials today as Aston Villa makes its way to Anfield.
Arne Slot’s side can secure top spot heading into the international break with another victory today. With Manchester City and Arsenal set for difficult games against Brighton and Chelsea respectively, there could even be a chance for the Reds to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League if results go their way.
Liverpool will once again be without four players, with Diogo Jota, Federico Chiesa, Harvey Elliott and Alisson Becker still out injured. Nevertheless, it will still be a strong side, with Luis Diaz aiming to follow up his hat-trick against Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League.
Rio Ngumoha and Arne Slot have just sent a clear contract message to Trent Alexander-Arnold Arne Slot makes telling admission on Federico Chiesa's injury problemsVilla, on the other hand, had a week to forget in Europe, with Unai Emery’s side suffering their first defeat in this season’s Champions League. In fact, it hasn’t been a great couple of weeks for the Villans.
They’re without a win in their last four games across all competitions, and have suffered defeats in each of their last three outings. Nevertheless, they certainly aren’t a team to be taken lightly as they target another top-four finish this season.
Changes will be expected following that surprise defeat to Club Brugge on Wednesday. Barring any late injury concerns, Emiliano Martinez will retain his place in goal, but Tyrone Mings may make way after his (literal) hand in the bizarre penalty in Belgium.
Pau Torres should return at the heart of the defense alongside Diego Carlos, with Ezri Konsa and Lucas Digne lining up at full-back.
Youri Tielemans is a slight doubt after picking up a knock against Brugge, although he is expected to be fit despite being left out of Belgium’s squad for the upcoming international break. The former Leicester man could therefore start alongside Boubacar Kamara and Amadou Onana in midfield.
In attack, Leon Bailey and Morgan Rogers could start either side of Ollie Watkins, leaving Jhon Duran to take up his usual spot on the bench. Given his record this season though, Liverpool will have to stay alert if the Colombian makes an appearance at Anfield.
Aston Villa predicted team vs Liverpool: Martinez, Konsa, Carlos, Pau, Digne, Kamara, Onana, Bailey, Tielemans, Rogers, Watkins.
