Unai Emery’s side, fresh off the back of a disappointing dumping from the Europa Conference League having lost twice to Olympiacos, will be desperate to bounce back. A packed Villa Park will welcome the Villans knowing a victory will be enough to sensationally secure Champions League qualification for next campaign.
Liverpool, down in third and now officially out of the title race, are in no man’s land in the league standings but there’s plenty of pride to play for. It’s of course Jürgen Klopp’s last-ever Reds away day and probably his last in the Premier League altogether, meaning the German and his squad will be fired up to secure a strong result.
Recent results are in favour of this Monday’s hosts - just about - as Villa have claimed eight points from their last 15 available, compared to Liverpool’s seven. But form is likely to go out of the window for this one with both teams desperately fighting to conclude the season on a high.
There are several selection dilemmas for Emery to consider as Youri Tielemans, Morgan Rogers and Nicolo Zaniolo all remain doubts. Risks could be taken given the importance of the fixture but one eye must also be gazing at the last game – away at Crystal Palace next weekend.
Including some difficult decisions in midfield and a sensible defensive plan, here’s how Birmingham World reporter Charlie Haffenden predicts Villa will line up against Liverpool.
5. LB - Lucas Digne
Digne has been ahead of Alex Moreno in the pecking order for much of this campaign. That’s expected to continue, especially with Moreno not at full fitness. | Getty Images
6. RM - Matty Cash
Cash has often filled in at right midfield when injuries have revoked squad depth. He’s a threat on his day, especially when he gets down the byline. | Getty Images
7. CM - Douglas Luiz
Luiz isn’t quite hitting the levels from earlier in the season but that’s understandable given how congested the fixture schedule has been. He remains a vital player. | Getty Images
8. CM - John McGinn
McGinn will almost certainly be utilised in the midfield double pivot again with Youri Tielemans still a big doubt. There’s no need to take any risks. | Getty Images