Liverpool vs Aston Villa – Predicted lineup and team news

Liverpool are in a state of domestic crisis as they prepare to host Aston Villa this evening.

The reigning champions have shockingly lost their last four consecutive Premier League matches. This collapse is even more surprising after they had won their first five games. In fact, Arne Slot’s side have now lost six of their last seven games in all competitions. This dreadful run includes a 3-0 cup defeat to Crystal Palace.

The pressure is certainly mounting on the manager. Anfield has typically been a fortress for the club, especially against Villa, where Liverpool have won six of the last seven meetings. However, the Reds must overcome both a lengthy injury list and shattered confidence to get a result tonight. A fifth straight league loss would be the club’s worst such run since 1953. It would also mark a new low for a defending champion.

Liverpool team news

Liverpool have been handed a timely fitness boost. Midfielder Ryan Gravenberch is back in contention for the clash with Aston Villa. The Dutchman missed the last three matches with an ankle injury but returned to full training this week. Head coach Arne Slot confirmed a final decision will be made on whether he is fit enough to start.

However, this positive news is tempered by several key absences. Both Alexander Isak (groin) and Curtis Jones (injury) are almost certain to miss the match. Slot rated their chances of playing at “99.9% out.” They join a significant absentee list. This list includes goalkeeper Alisson Becker (hamstring), Jeremie Frimpong (hamstring), and defender Giovanni Leoni, who is out long-term with an ACL injury.

Key attackers like Mohamed Salah will be crucial. The Egyptian is just one goal involvement shy of Wayne Rooney’s Premier League record (276) for a single club.