Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the English Premier League match.
Despite only 25 rounds played, Liverpool are set for their 29th fixture, as the match has been brought forward due to their participation in the EFL Cup final on 16 March. Aston Villa, by chance, also get to play early, but their recent form is far from ideal heading into a clash with the league leaders.
Aston Villa
Aston Villa are in a slump, having failed to win any of their last four Premier League matches (three draws, one defeat). Worse still, aside from Arsenal, none of their recent opponents have been particularly strong – the highest-ranked among them was West Ham United (16th place). Their 25th-round match against Ipswich Town saw them fail to capitalise on a numerical advantage from the 40th minute onwards, despite 76% possession, 25 shots (6 on target), and 2.42 xG.
Liverpool
Liverpool will visit Manchester City at the weekend, raising questions about squad rotation. However, against Wolverhampton, Jürgen Klopp fielded a full-strength squad, securing a narrow victory (2:1) with 10 total shots, but impressive accuracy – three on target, two goals. Similarly, in the Merseyside derby against Everton, they converted two of their four shots on target into goals.
Aston Villa vs Liverpool Prediction
The last time these two sides met at Villa Park, they produced a 3:3 thriller. With Mohamed Salah back in form, Liverpool should score at least twice, which almost guarantees at least a draw. Meanwhile, Aston Villa have scored in their last 10 home matches, making another high-scoring affair likely.
