Gravenberch out, three changes – Liverpool predicted XI v Aston Villa
Arne Slot is expected to make three changes to his starting line-up when Liverpool travel to Aston Villa on Wednesday.
The Reds are looking to take a ten-point margin over Arsenal at the top of the Premier League with victory at Villa Park on 19 February.
Joe Gomez and Cody Gakpo will miss the contest as the Dutchman confirmed that they are his only absentees during his pre-match press conference (18 February).
Slot may also have an eye on the Manchester City clash (23 February) and that could affect his team selection.
Liverpool to make three changes for Aston Villa clash
Alisson is expected to continue against the Villans after a brilliant display against Wolves in which he made three saves and 12 recoveries. [Fotmob]
The Reds are expected to persist with Trent Alexander-Arnold and Virgil van Dijk in the backline but Slot could make two changes from the side that started against Vitor Pereira’s side at the heart of defence.
Jarell Quansah and Kostas Tsimikas are predicted to start in place of Ibrahima Konate and Andy Robertson as the duo recorded ground duel success rates of just 25 and 29 per cent respectively on Sunday (16 February).
The Frenchman was lucky to not receive a red card in the first half of the contest and Quansah made a crucial interception in the latter stages to secure the victory.
Major change in midfield for Liverpool
Arne Slot is expected make a major change in midfield for the clash with Unai Emery’s side with Ryan Gravenberch predicted to be replaced by Wataru Endo.
The Dutchman committed three fouls and was successful in five of the 11 ground duels that he contested for a 45 per cent win rate and could be rested with Manchester City on the horizon.
The Japan international is a capable backup, completing 100 per cent of his passes, winning 60 per cent of his duels and making two passes into the final third in a 19-minute cameo against Wolves.
Alexis Mac Allister and Dominic Szoboszlai are expected to remain in the Reds’ engine room after solid performances in the clash.
Mohamed Salah is predicted to continue on the right flank, he was composed from the spot to double the lead and had seven touches in the opposition box despite a relatively quiet game.
Luis Diaz might resume his role on the left wing due to Gakpo’s absence after he scored his first goal in ten Premier League matches and won the penalty that the Egyptian converted against Wolves.
Diogo Jota failed to score against his former club but his performance was encouraging and he might be given the nod to lead the line against Villa after taking three shots and taking six touches in the opposition box on Sunday.
The Reds face a pivotal week in the title race with the Villa clash, a trip to Manchester City, and then a home clash with Newcastle (26 February).
If they can take maximum points during this tough period then they will be in pole position to win the league title in Slot’s first season in English football.