Liverpool lineup vs Aston Villa: Minamino in, Mane and Firmino dropped

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Mohamed Salah, Liverpool (Photo by Robin Jones/Getty Images) /

RW – Mohamed Salah

Given that Aston Villa are a tough opponent, Klopp will most likely start one of the front three at least. For now, I’m going for Salah to get the nod. The Egyptian international hasn’t been at his best in the past couple of games or so and will be looking to add to his tally of 16 goals on Friday. It won’t be much of a surprise if Shaqiri starts. Provided Klopp goes for a 4-3-3, there’s a fair chance of the Swiss starting on the right-wing.

CF – Divock Origi

The FA Cup is a glorious chance for the Belgian to get some game time and there’s every chance of him starting up front. Origi’s only goal of the season came in the League Cup clash against Lincoln City and he will be keen on increasing that number against Villa. However, it won’t be much of a surprise if Klopp opts for Roberto Firmino instead.

LW- Takumi Minamino

The 25-year-old netted his first Premier League goal in the 7-0 rout of Crystal Palace which is also the last match Liverpool have won. There’s a good chance that Klopp could rest Sadio Mane and go with Minamino. The Japanese international has scored four goals this season so far and Friday could be an opportunity for him to grab more.