Liverpool lineup vs Aston Villa: Jota full debut, Fabinho in midfield

Robertson, van Dijk, Gomez, Alexander-Arnold

Klopp’s experiment with Fabinho was good while it lasted, but he probably wouldn’t have picked the Brazilian in defence if Gomez hadn’t picked up a little niggle before the Chelsea game.

The fact that he did well will have put some pressure on the young defender, but with Joel Matip out injured he’ll resume duties alongside van Dijk.

Although he’s recovered from COVID-19, Tsimikas is now out injured after he picked up a muscle strain in the Lincoln victory and won’t be available to put pressure on Andy Robertson this week.

Robbo may have been at fault for Arsenal’s first goal, but he responded beautifully and helped claw the Reds back into the game. That strength of character and that ownership of his error is what will help inspire this squad to bigger things.

Trent Alexander-Arnold grabbed the assist for Robertson’s goal and he’s looking more up to speed now thanks to 270 minutes of Premier League action. After a short preseason, he was never going to be match fit straight away but it’s looking good now.

He’s one of the team’s main creative outlets and he’ll give Villa massive problems throughout the game. Fullbacks Matty Cash and Matt Targett are going to have to be really disciplined throughout the 90.