Aston Villa FC and Liverpool FC face off in a massive Premier League encounter on Friday night.

Both clubs sit on 59 points and remain locked in the battle for Champions League qualification.

Aston Villa struggling for consistency

Aston Villa FC were held to a frustrating 2-2 draw by Burnley last weekend.

The hosts are now without a win in their last three league matches.

Emery may rotate heavily

Manager Unai Emery could make several lineup changes with the Europa League final approaching.

As a result, stars like Morgan Rogers and Ollie Watkins may not complete the full match.

Liverpool’s away form remains concerning

Liverpool FC drew 1-1 against Chelsea in their previous outing.

More worrying is the fact that the Reds have lost five of their last six away matches.

Early defensive issues continue

Liverpool have conceded first in six of their last eight away fixtures.

That trend gives Aston Villa a strong opportunity to start aggressively.

Salah closing in on return

Mohamed Salah is nearing full fitness and could feature on Friday night.

The Egyptian forward will be highly motivated, especially if this proves to be one of his final away appearances for Liverpool.

Aston Villa vs Liverpool key stats

Match facts

• Liverpool have scored at least twice in each of their last eight league visits to Villa Park
• Five of Villa’s last seven matches produced over 2.5 goals
• Both teams scored in four of Villa’s last five home league games
• Liverpool conceded first in six of their last eight away matches
• Liverpool rank among the league’s best teams for set-piece goals

Prediction and betting analysis

Liverpool remain slight favourites, but the match is expected to be extremely competitive.

Villa’s aggressive home approach combined with Liverpool’s tendency to concede first creates strong value in the first goalscorer market.

Hot tip

• Both teams to score
• Over 2.5 goals