Liverpool will look to continue their fine run of form in the Premier League against Aston Villa on Saturday’s late kick-off at Anfield. The Reds lost the corresponding fixture against the Villains last season, but head into tomorrow’s game on a run of nine victories in their last ten matches at home and manager Brendan Rodgers will certainly be expecting all three points from the game against an inconsistent Villa side.
The probable line-up for Liverpool against Aston Villa :
Goalkeeper
Although, Simon Mignolet let in three goals against Stoke, he came up with some crucial saves as well during the enticing encounter. The Belgian shot-stopper will certainly be desperate for a shut-out against a Villa side who are not very prolific, given the fact that he has been able to keep only 2 clean sheets in the last 10 Premier League matches.
Defence
Rodgers resisted the temptation to play Mamadou Sakho against Stoke, but could start with the Frenchman against Villa after witnessing a shaky performance from his defenders last week. Sakho will probably be partnered by Martin Skrtel with Kolo Toure dropping to the bench. The likes of Daniel Agger, Luis Enrique and Sebastian Coates remain sidelined, while Jon Flanagan is doubtful, which means that Glen Johnson and Aly Cissokho look set to start in the full back positions.
Midfield
Brendan Rodgers may think about reverting to a 4-4-2 after the return of Daniel Sturridge, but with his team performing so well, the Northern Irishman will probably stick with the 4-5-1 formation.
There should not be too many changes to the midfield area with Steven Gerrard, Lucas and Jordan Henderson starting at the middle of the park, although Joe Allen could also be in contention after returning from injury. Raheem Sterling looks set to retain his place on the wings, while Philippe Coutinho could make way in favour of Daniel Sturridge, who was brilliant in his cameo role last week.
Striker
Luis Suarez will be leading the line for the Reds and he will certainly be provided with support from Sturridge who will drift-in centrally from the wings, while the likes of Sterling, Henderson and Gerrard will be looking to create opportunities for the devastating duo.
Probable Lineup
(4-5-1)
Mignolet; Cissokho, Skrtel, Sakho, Johnson; Sterling, Henderson, Lucas, Gerrard, Sturridge; Suarez
