Liverpool in Klopp mode with Díaz, due to Gakpo's absence against Aston Villa

Coach Arne Slot revealed that Cody Gakpo is still recovering at Liverpool and will therefore maintain the attacking trident with Luis Díaz on the left against Aston Villa

"Lucho" returned to the left due to the Dutchman's injury and performed well against Wolverhampton. He was the best player of the match with the first goal and generated the penalty that sealed the victory on matchday 25. He thus shook off a streak that had plagued him for a month and a half, as pointed out by the English press.

He was more comfortable as a number nine than he was under Jurgen Klopp. He was unbalanced on the wing, accompanied by Diogo Jota and Mohamed Salah.

“Díaz showed great character and was very important in the two goals and with a good work rhythm on the field ,” explained Slot.

The leaders brought forward the 29th matchday and will visit Villa on Wednesday, February 19. The attacking trident will be the same, as Gakpo will not be in the squad.

" I think both Gakpo and Gomez are unavailable. Cody is close to returning and Joe will take a while. He'll be out for a few weeks with a hamstring injury," the coach said.

Liverpool are first in England with 60 points, seven more than second-placed Arsenal. They are unbeaten away from home.

"There are 13 games left to play and the next one will be the most important, starting with Villa away from home. They have a great home record, maybe even more so if they play at night, so we know it's going to be a challenge. But we also have a good record away from home this season ," he concluded.

The match will be on Wednesday 19 February at 2:30pm at Villa Park.