Liverpool predicted XI: Reds looking to seal Champions League qualification in must-win top-five six-pointer

Liverpool predicted XI: Reds looking to seal Champions League qualification in must-win top-five six-pointer

Friday night at Villa Park could prove decisive in the race for Champions League qualification, as Aston Villa prepare to face Liverpool in one of the biggest matches of the Premier League run-in.

With only two games remaining, the pressure is mounting on both sides. Liverpool sit fourth in the table, but only goal difference separates them from fifth-placed Villa.

Meanwhile, Bournemouth are breathing down their necks, sitting just four points behind and still hoping for an opening to gatecrash the top five.

Liverpool arrive in Birmingham after a disappointing 1-1 draw against Chelsea, which put another huge dent in their Champions League qualification hopes.

The Reds have gone through a horrendous title defence so far, failing to maintain the standards that carried them to the title last season.

Liverpool are getting ready to relinquish their crown, but their hopes of playing in the Champions League next season are still in the balance.

While they’re still in a decent position to go through, a late capitulation from Arne Slot’s side could see them drop out of the top five.

Their terrible away form could be their Achilles Heel. The Reds have lost eight of their 18 Premier League games on the road this season.