Liverpool vs Aston Villa: Slot Set to Revert to Trusted System as Gravenberch Nears Return
Liverpool head coach Arne Slot is expected to return to his tried-and-tested setup when his side host Aston Villa at Anfield on Saturday night, following tactical tweaks in midweek.
The Reds boss experimented with a back-three system in Wednesdayβs Carabao Cup defeat to Crystal Palace, but he has since hinted that the change was only temporary. Speaking ahead of the match, Slot said, βI wouldnβt see too much into that,β suggesting a return to a traditional back four β with Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima KonatΓ© set to be recalled after being rested.
Gravenberch Returns, But Injury Woes Continue
Thereβs positive news in midfield as Ryan Gravenberch is back in full training after recovering from a twisted ankle suffered in the 2-1 loss to Manchester United earlier this month. The Dutchman is in contention for a place in the matchday squad.
However, Alexander Isak and Curtis Jones remain sidelined, with Slot confirming they are β99.9 per cent sure not to be involved.β They join Alisson Becker, Jeremie Frimpong, and Giovanni Leoni on the injury list.
With Alisson still unavailable due to a hamstring injury, Giorgi Mamardashvili will continue in goal, aiming for his first clean sheet since joining the club. Joe Gomez could start at right-back if Slot opts for extra defensive stability, as Liverpool search for their first Premier League shutout since mid-September.
Midfield Battle and Selection Dilemma
If Gravenberch proves fit, Slot faces a selection headache in midfield, with Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexis Mac Allister, and Florian Wirtz also pushing for starting spots. The Dutchmanβs potential return could add much-needed balance and dynamism in the middle of the park.
Salahβs Home Drought to End?
In attack, Mohamed Salah is expected to lead the line once again, supported by Cody Gakpo and Hugo Ekitike. The Egyptian superstar will be determined to end his surprising Premier League goal drought at Anfield β he hasnβt scored at home in the league since the opening day of the season.
Slotβs side will be desperate for a reaction after a frustrating run of results, with pressure mounting on the Liverpool boss following their Carabao Cup exit. A convincing win against Villa could ease the tension and restore some belief among the Anfield faithful.
Predicted Liverpool XI:
Mamardashvili; Gomez, KonatΓ©, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Mac Allister, Szoboszlai; Salah, Wirtz, Gakpo; Ekitik
