Liverpool v Aston Villa Betting Tips [11 December 2021]

The big story here is of course the return of Steven Gerrard to Anfield. Liverpool are second in the Premier League and host Aston Villa who are up to tenth in the table. The Reds begin the weekend just a point behind leaders Manchester City. The league leaders play earlier in the day, so Jurgen Klopp's side could be four points adrift by the time this match begins. Liverpool won at Milan in midweek, their sixth win in a row since losing at West Ham. This time last year Liverpool were having a nightmare at home, they come into this match unbeaten in 11 Premier League games. That run began with a 2-1 home victory over Aston Villa. In all competitions, Liverpool are unbeaten in 16 games and have kept a clean sheet in each of the last four.

Aston Villa were in big trouble when Dean Smith was sacked. Enter Steven Gerrard and he's managed to turn the situation around. Or was it just a case of the players not wanting to do their best for Smith? Villa are now nine points above the drop zone and eight behind fourth place. They have won three out of four league games under their new manager, with only Manchester City beating them. Three of their last four away league fixtures have been lost but they won last time out at Crystal Palace. This is going to be a lot tougher for Gerrard as he returns to the club he seems destined to manage one day. Back Liverpool to win this and be ahead at both half and full time.