Possible Line-ups, Stats, Team News: Aston Villa vs Liverpool

• Fabian Delph returns from suspension but Ciaran Clark is suspended for this game.
• Duo centre-backs Philippe Senderos and Ron Vlaar are both out with a calf injury.
• Nathan Baker has returned and is likely to start at the heart of defence.
• Chris Herd will miss because of African Cup of Nations.

• Liverpool star Raheem Sterling has returned from his homeland Jamaica after enjoying some days away from football.
• Fabio Borini is likely to keep his place in front goal.
• Steven Gerrard who was taken out from the field in the second half of last game against Sunderland is likely to be rested due to hamstring injury.
• Adam Lallana is doubtful for this game.
• Kolo Toure is on international duty for African Cup of Nations.
• Daniel Sturridge, Jon Flanagan and Glen Johnson all have returned to training but are not match fit yet.

• Aston Villa have won two of their last five Premier League games against Liverpool.
• The home side have not scored a goal in their last four Premier League matches.
• The Reds have lost only one of their last 16 games against Aston Villa at Villa Park.
• Liverpool have kept 10 clean sheets in their last 16 matches against Aston Villa at Villa Park.

Aston Villa 1 – 3 Liverpool, Mario Balotelli to score his first Premier League goal.