Verdict: Away win
Best odds: 17/20
Bookmaker: Unibet
Liverpool have the chance to open up a commanding 10-point lead at the Premier League summit on Wednesday night when they face Aston Villa.
Arne Slot’s side surpassed the 60-point mark with a tense 2-1 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers at the weekend, while their hosts were left frustrated after being held to a 1-1 draw by struggling Ipswich Town.
Aston Villa
Aston Villa extended their unbeaten run at Villa Park to 12 matches in all competitions over the weekend, but a frustrating 1-1 draw with 10-man Ipswich Town felt more like a defeat for Unai Emery’s side.
Despite Axel Tuanzebe’s early dismissal, Ipswich took a shock lead through Liam Delap, only for Ollie Watkins to equalize after Marcus Rashford’s free kick hit the woodwork. Villa threw everything forward but were repeatedly denied by Ipswich debutant Alex Palmer, leaving them six points adrift of the final Champions League spot.
While winning this season’s tournament could offer another route into next year’s competition, Villa’s recent form – just two wins in seven outings – does not resemble that of European champions. Moreover, their defensive frailties persist, with no clean sheet in eight home games.
Adding to their concerns, Villa’s 2-0 loss at Anfield in November extended their winless streak against Liverpool to nine matches, a run dating back to their unforgettable 7-2 triumph in 2020.
Team News
Unai Emery’s defensive woes persist, with Boubacar Kamara forced off just 16 minutes into the draw with Ipswich. While the Villa boss remains hopeful that the issue is not serious, Kamara is now expected to join Pau Torres (ankle), Ross Barkley (calf), Ezri Konsa (unspecified), Amadou Onana (thigh), and Matty Cash (unspecified) on the sidelines.
Leon Bailey’s availability also remains uncertain after missing the weekend’s match, but there is some relief for Villa, as Tyrone Mings has recovered from a minor knee problem and could replace Kamara at the back. Meanwhile, Manchester United loanee Marcus Rashford is in line for his first start after another promising cameo off the bench.
Liverpool
Still feeling the effects of their intense Merseyside derby clash, Liverpool nearly let a comfortable lead slip against Wolves on Sunday but ultimately held on for a crucial three points.
Luis Diaz’s unconventional opener off his midriff was followed by Mohamed Salah’s calm penalty, but the league leaders grew increasingly careless in the second half. Matheus Cunha’s stunning 20-yard strike rewarded Wolves’ persistence, and Liverpool failed to register a single shot on target after the break, a first for them in a Premier League half at Anfield since records began.
Despite their struggles, Arne Slot’s side restored their seven-point lead over Arsenal, who are not in action until Saturday. A win on Wednesday would see Liverpool extend their advantage to double digits, reinforcing their position at the top.
However, a tough run of fixtures looms, starting with this trip to Villa Park before a showdown at Manchester City and a home clash with Newcastle. Improving their away form will be crucial, as Liverpool have won just two of their last seven matches on the road in all competitions. That said, they remain unbeaten in the Premier League away from home this season.
Team News
Cody Gakpo remains sidelined after taking a heavy knock in the draw with Everton, with Arne Slot confirming that the Dutch forward will also miss the trip to Aston Villa.
Joe Gomez (hamstring) is unavailable as well, but Curtis Jones returns from suspension and could replace Dominik Szoboszlai as Slot carefully manages squad rotation during a demanding two-week period.
Darwin Nunez and Kostas Tsimikas may also come into the starting XI, though Mohamed Salah is expected to retain his place. The Egyptian is one assist away from reaching double digits away from home in the Premier League this season, a feat previously achieved only by Cesc Fabregas and Muzzy Izzet.
Conclusion
Both teams will be looking to improve on their recent performances as they prepare to face each other, and despite Aston Villa being usually strong at home, the quality of Liverpool should prove sufficient for the Merseysiders to continue marching towards their 20th league title.
Verdict: Away win
Best odds: 17/20
Bookmaker: Unibet
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