Bjorn Engels saw limited game time under Dean Smith last season (Getty Images)
A four-game winning streak in all competitions for Aston Villa before they lost to Stoke means that they will be going into the Liverpool game with optimism. They have won each of their two fixtures in the league but lost to Stoke City in the EFL Cup last night.
However, Liverpool will surely not be the easiest of opponents. The Reds are also in good form with 3 wins in 3 league games. It looks like Liverpool are the favourites going into the game but you never know what can happen in the Premier League.
New signing Ross Barkley (source – Sky Sports) is expected to make a start or an appearance in some capacity. Elsewhere, Tom Heaton, Wesley and Bjorn Engels are out with injury.
However, Dean Smith will be hoping to put out his best team against the defending champions on the weekend.
The former Arsenal man will be hoping for another clean sheet for his new employers as he gets used to featuring on a regular basis.
Targett keeps his place at left-back and will be given the huge task of stopping the phenomenal Mohamed Salah.
Villa’s best defender for a while now. Won’t have it easy against Liverpool’s prolific front three though.
Has put in some good performances in the last few games. Will likely return to the starting XI after coming on from the bench against Stoke City.
Matty Cash has settled in well at the club and keeps his place on the right side of the defence.
While one would have expected Connor Hourihane to start, the need for a defensive midfielder will be of utmost importance. Luiz will be fulfilling that role.
McGinn is Villa’s midfield lynchpin. Without him, the team looks short of creativity.
The newest recruit will likely feature in this important clash. He was forced to miss the midweek clash due to being cup-tied.
There can be no questions about Grealish’s place. He is comfortably Villa’s best player and will be vital to their chances against Liverpool.
Might be given the nod ahead of Trezeguet. He started against Stoke City and should get his chance again.
Came on from the bench against Stoke City but should start this game against Liverpool.
