Liverpool v Aston Villa Match Preview

Gerard Houllier will be returning to Anfield today after six years, but this time as manager of Aston Villa.

Aston Villa have won only once in their last six league games and hope to add nothing but a win to their record at Liverpool on this cold wintery Monday night at 8pm.

Liverpool also need nothing but three points. They have been inconsistent so far this season, and that has seen them currently in 12th place in the Barclays Premier League.

A win will see the Reds to at least 9th place, but it still puts them in a better position and possibly as contenders for a Champions League spot.

Unfortunately, both teams are very injury-plagued at the moment.

Liverpool are still without captain Steven Gerrard due to hamstring and co-captain Jamie Carragher, who underwent a surgery last week on his dislocated shoulder picked up against Tottenham.

Defender Daniel Agger is also still out with calf problems, and Jay Spearing’s ankle is still on the mend.

Aston Villa are in a worse position however, with midfielder Barry Brannan and Habib Beye both doubtful.

Also unavailable for the visiting team are Delph, Heskey, Petrov and Reo-Coker all because of knee issues, Sidwell (Achilles), Weimann (ankle) and Albrighton, who is currently suffering from appendicitis.

Ashley Young will be out serving his one-match ban after acquiring five bookings so far this season.

The match will be shown live on Sky Sports 1.