In-depth Analysis
The race for fourth place in the Premier League is entering its most intense stage as Aston Villa prepare to face Liverpool in the opening match of Round 37 on Saturday night. Both teams are currently level on 59 points, meaning the outcome of this clash could have a major impact on the battle near the top of the table.
Aston Villa will play the Europa League final just a few days later, but Unai Emery’s side know that a victory over Liverpool would provide a huge psychological boost ahead of their showdown with Freiburg in Istanbul. More importantly, three points would move Villa closer to securing a Champions League spot next season through a top-five Premier League finish, regardless of their European result.
Although Aston Villa maintained impressive form for much of the campaign, they have shown signs of slowing down in recent weeks. They are currently four points behind the tally they had at the same stage last season and have won only one of their last five Premier League matches. Last weekend’s 2-2 draw against already-relegated Burnley further dented the team’s confidence.
Meanwhile, Liverpool have still managed a respectable average of two points per game across their last five league matches. However, their uninspiring 1-1 draw against an inconsistent Chelsea side last weekend led to more criticism from supporters. Their away form remains another concern, with the Reds averaging just 1.33 points per away game this season, while Aston Villa have been extremely strong at Villa Park with nearly two points per home match.