MY ACCOUNT
– Aston Villa have lost eight of their last nine Premier League meetings against Liverpool
– Liverpool’s 15 wins at Villa Park is their most at a single away ground in the competition
– Recommended bet: Liverpool to win and over 2.5 goals
A close encounter is expected when Aston Villa prepare to host Liverpool at Villa Park on Boxing Day.
Both teams come into the game in good form, with Villa beating Manchester United and Brighton in their last two league games, while Liverpool have overcome Tottenham and Southampton in recent outings.
Team news
Aston Villa playmaker Philippe Coutinho remains on the sidelines through injury, as does Diego Carlos, with the latter on the treatment table for the long term.
The likes of Leander Dendoncker, Matty Cash and Jan Bednarek are back and in training after featuring at the World Cup, while Unai Emery will make a late call on whether to include Emiliano Martinez in his squad after he won the World Cup with Argentina last weekend.
Jacob Ramsey, Emiliano Buendia, and Jed Steer have all carried knocks recently and must be assessed before kick-off.
Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp remains without a host of first-team stars, with Luis Diaz, Arthur, Diogo Jota all out for the next few weeks.
Right-back James Milner picked up an injury in the 3-2 defeat to Manchester City in the Carabao Cup, while fellow defender Trent Alexander-Arnold missed that game due to illness.
Roberto Firmino and Curtis Jones are also likely to miss the trip to Villa Park, with a return in the New Year more likely.
The stats
Villa boss Emery has enjoyed a tremendous start to life in the Midlands after winning both of his league matches so far.
The Villans have won their last two outings at home, but they have a dismal record against the Reds at Villa Park.
Aston Villa have lost eight of their last nine league games to Liverpool, while Liverpool’s 15 victories at Villa Park is their most at a single away ground in the Premier League.
Liverpool have also won their last five Premier League games on Boxing Day, suggesting they come to life at this time of year.
Klopp’s side are looking to win their third Premier League game in a row for the first time this season.
Prediction
Liverpool showed signs of progress against Man City in midweek, but in the end, the attacking talent of the Citizens proved too much.
Games involving Liverpool this season have been lively affairs, and three of their last five matches have contained at least three goals.
Over 2.5 goals has also landed in seven of Liverpool’s last ten games away from Anfield in the Premier League, and for now, it seems that for Liverpool to win, they have to score at least two goals.
Their defensive woes do not look like they will let up, but considering their record at Villa Park, an away win and over 2.5 goals appeals at 29/20 with LiveScore Bet.
