Last weekend, Liverpool had another good performance against Sunderland in a 1-0 win. The team has not lost since the Manchester United match and it looks like Brendan Rodgers has found something in the 3-4-3 formation he has been using as of late.
This weekend, the team will be looking to gain even more momentum against an Aston Villa team that lost to relegation leaders Leicester last week.
Goalkeeper
Simon Mignolet should be able to get another clean sheet against a Villa team that has only scored 11 goals this season. He will continue to try and convince Rodgers not to add another ‘keeper during the winter transfer window and another strong performance would do that.
Center Backs
The back line made up of Emre Can, Martin Skrtel and Mamadou Sakho will likely be able to handle the weak Villa attacking trio of Andreas Weimann, Gabriel Agbonlahor and Christian Benteke.
Can has emerged as a ball-playing defender who is able to start quick counter-attacks with his passing while Skrtel and Sakho have been very solid in their tackling the past few matches.
Right Midfield
Lazar Markovic had his best performance in a Liverpool jersey against Sunderland and Rodgers should reward him with another starting spot this weekend.
His energy and ability to find the holes in the Sunderland defense made him a terror to defend and he should be able to do that again this weekend. He will likely play against former Liverpool player Aly Cissoko, who is capable of matching his speed
Center Midfielders
With Jordan Henderson’s passing and Lucas Leiva’s tackling, the pair offers both offense and defense in midfield. Henderson is always able to find passes that lead to opportunities to shoot at the goal while Lucas has been an instrumental part of the turnaround Liverpool has recently had.
Left Midfield
Alberto Moreno did not play particularly well against Sunderland but he should have more space to operate against Villa. His ability to provide width to the Liverpool attack is useful and his crossing ability will always create some opportunities in the penalty area.
Forwards
The front line of Steven Gerrard, Raheem Sterling and Philippe Coutinho offers a nice blend of creativity and experience. Sterling should be well-rested after a two week break and the team as a whole should be encouraged by the fact that Daniel Sturridge has returned to training after a long injury spell.
Meanwhile both Gerrard and Coutinho should be able to exploit the Villa defense with their creativity and movement.
(3-4-3)
Via – Lineup Builder
