Liverpool visit Villa Park for their final road game of the season on Friday, May 15th, in a huge showdown with Aston Villa. The two teams are even on points, so this is a huge match in terms of Champions League qualification for next season. Here are three main points to consider ahead of the showdown as the Reds try to secure a UCL spot.
The Return Of The King & Other Injury News
Mohamed Salah is expected to play on Friday, but only for a few minutes. If nothing else, this could provide the emotional lift the team need to get them across the finish line. Alisson Becker is in contention to start in goal, but it will be a match-time decision. Miloš Kerkez will also be a match-time decision due to a stomach issue, while Ibrahima Konaté is deemed fit after being subbed off with an injury vs Chelsea.
Favourable Stats
All signs point to a much-needed Liverpool win. The Reds have scored at least twice in 10 of their last 11 games vs Villa and have won 10 of the last 11 EPL matches played on a Friday. Villa have had poor home form as of late, winning just four times in their last eight matches on their home pitch. In all, Villa have only beaten Liverpool once in the last 16 meetings, a 7-2 victory at Villa Park in 2020.
The Iron Man Of Merseyside
Captain Virgil van Dijk is set to break Jamie Carragher’s minutes played record during the match. He has played a total of 4,761 minutes, the most since Carragher’s 4,789 in the 2007-08 season.
“I think Virgil has the No. 1 most playing minutes in the world this season,” Arne Slot said. “I have so much respect for him in a difficult season, both mentally and physically. He is constantly available for selection.”
Predicted Lineup
Even with Salah being available for selection, he is not expected to start. See the rest of the predicted lineup here or use our interactive lineup selector to create your own.
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LFC Globe Verdict
As you can see from the Predicted XI, I think Slot and the Reds will put a strong offensive lineup on the pitch. They have traditionally scored a lot of goals vs. Aston Villa, and this time will be no different. Prediction: Aston Villa 1 Liverpool 3.
Have Your Say
Do you think the Reds will be aggressive offensively, or do you believe that Slot’s natural cautiousness will win out? Drop a comment below to let us know.
Where To Watch
Match Info UK Broadcast US Broadcast Canada Broadcast
Kick-off 8:00 PM BST 3:00 PM ET 3:00 PM ET
TV Channel Sky Sports Peacock (Streaming Only) FuboTV
Live Stream Sky Sports Go Peacock FuboTV Canada