Liverpool have shifted focus to their next challenge as they travel to Aston Villa in their ongoing Premier League title push. The Reds’ possible lineup for their clash with Unai Emery’s team have been revealed after Arne Slot’s press conference.
The Merseyside club are aiming to become just the second team to defeat Villa on their home ground in the league this season, a formidable task amidst their packed schedule. This match had to be rescheduled forward due to Liverpool’s involvement in the Carabao Cup final next month.
With pressure mounting as the season progresses, Slot and his squad are fully focused on the next match to maintain momentum and keep the gap on their closest rivals, Arsenal at the top of the table.
Liverpool possible lineup when they face Aston Villa
With a few injuries to manage and one player coming back from suspension, we take a look at how Slot could set up his team for Wednesday’s crucial meeting. There was a mix of good and bad news on the injury front as the Manager provided updates ahead of the Reds’ trip.
Curtis Jones is available after serving a one-game suspension, Cody Gakpo remains unavailable but is close to returning from an ankle injury.
Joe Gomez is out for a while and might need surgery on his hamstring injury, while Tyler Morton is recovering after a successful shoulder surgery.
According to ThisisAnfield, Robertson may be rested for this match, with Kostas Tsimikas stepping in at left-back to keep Robertson fresh for the upcoming clash against Manchester City.
Curtis Jones, could be given more responsibility in midfield in place of Dominik Szoboszlai, who may be given a break after his recent choked playing time.
Up front, Nunez could lead the line, with Luis Diaz shifting to the left wing where he’s been most effective.
There may also be consideration over whether Alexander-Arnold should start in consecutive games following his return from injury, especially with Conor Bradley ready to play on the sidelines.\
Another potential tweak could see Diogo Jota retained in the forward line over Nunez, in a move to exploit a Villa defence that has failed to keep a clean sheet in any of their last seven matches.
In mind of a crunch meeting with Manchester City on Sunday, the Reds will need to carefully manage player rotation to maintain optimal performance levels over the next five days.
Aston Villa’s form has dipped recently, but it’s no secret they always raise their game when facing top teams like Liverpool.
Securing three points on Wednesday would be massive, keeping Liverpool’s momentum going as they continue their Premier League title charge.
Liverpool’s Predicted XI vs. Aston Villa: Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Tsimikas; Gravenberch, Jones, Mac Allister; Salah, Diaz, Nunez
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