Liverpool Seek Seventh Consecutive Anfield Win Against Struggling Aston Villa
Liverpool host Aston Villa on Saturday at 8pm, aiming to extend their six-match winning streak at Anfield. The Reds are confident, while Villa struggles with a three-match losing run.
Key Factors:
1. Liverpool’s momentum: Won last six Anfield matches
2. Villa’s dip in form: Lost three consecutive games
3. International break follows: Reds seek win before hiatus
4. Tough upcoming fixtures: Real Madrid, Man City, and Everton away
Team News:
1. Diogo Jota (rib injury): Returns one or two weeks after international break
2. Federico Chiesa (similar return timeline)
3. Harvey Elliott (fitness update sparse)
4. Alisson (hamstring injury): Remains out
Selection Dilemmas:
1. Left-back: Andy Robertson or Kostas Tsimikas
2. Left-wing: Luis Diaz or alternative options
3. Midfield: Curtis Jones, Alexis Mac Allister, or Dominik Szoboszlai
Predicted XI:
Kelleher; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Jones, Mac Allister; Salah, Nunez, Diaz
Aston Villa’s Situation:
1. Near fully-fit squad
2. Ross Barkley and Matty Cash out (hamstring and calf injuries)
3. Youri Tielemans doubtful (knee pain)
Arne Slot’s left-back conundrum:
1. Tsimikas’ improving form
2. Robertson’s slight drop-off
3. Rotation necessary due to position’s physical demands
Anfield Atmosphere:
1. 8pm kick-off benefits home support
2. Expected electric atmosphere
3. Fans urged to make themselves heard
The stage is set for a crucial Premier League clash.
Questions:
1. Will Liverpool maintain their momentum?
2. Can Villa halt their losing streak?
3. How will Slot’s selection decisions impact the match?
The outcome will significantly influence the league standings.