Liverpool’s surge for a top five position and Aston Villa’s fight for survival will continue on Sunday, March 31, 2013 at Villa Park in an English Premier League clash at 1330 GMT.
Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert will look to pull off the double over Liverpool for the first time in 20 years as he welcomes back a quartet of players from international duty. One major concern will be fitness going into the all-important match against Liverpool on Sunday.
Striker Darren Bent has just about recovered from a foot injury and is in contention to start this game. Nathan Baker who injured his head and Karim El Ahmadi with a bust ankle are also expected to make appearances after late medical clearances.
Ciaran Clark and Brett Holman who suffered injuries while on serving international duty will be evaluated over the weekend. Both of them are unlikely to make appearances in this game.
Brendan Rodgers will breathe a sigh of relief as first choice goalkeeper Jose Reina and veteran defender Jamie Carragher will both be available for Sunday’s trip to Villa Park.
They missed the previous game where the team tasted defeat against Southampton, probably the reason why the team ended up losing.
There are no more injury concerns for the Red other than long term absentees Fabio Borini, Joe Allen and Martin Kelly.
Liverpool seems to be making progress under Rodgers but at times seem lost and hapless. They will need to dig in deep and ensure that they come out with three points from this fixture. Another loss for them could most likely end their hopes for a finish in a European spot.
Luis Suarez and Christian Benteke will be the players to watch out as they have been regular scorers.
Expected Line-ups:
Aston Villa: Brad Guzan, Matthew Lowton, Ron Vlaar, Ciaran Clark, Nathan Baker, Ashley Westwood, Barry Bannan, Charles N’Zogbia, Gabriel Agbonlahor, Christian Benteke, Andreas Weimann
Liverpool: Pepe Reina, Glenn Johnson, Daniel Agger, Jamie Carragher, Jose Enrique, Lucas Levia, Steven Gerrard, Philippe Coutinho, Luis Suarez, Stewart Downing, Daniel Sturridge