Liverpool have been put on notice ahead of Friday’s crucial Premier League clash, with Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins declaring his side “always” make things difficult for the Reds at Villa Park.
Arne Slot’s team arrives under mounting pressure following a lackluster 1-1 draw with Chelsea at Anfield, where fans grew frustrated with another subdued performance. Villa, meanwhile, remain firmly in the race for Champions League qualification after fighting back to secure a 2-2 draw at Burnley on Sunday.
Speaking via avfc.co.uk after the draw, Watkins acknowledged Villa’s disappointment at not taking all three points but quickly shifted focus to the upcoming visit of Liverpool.
“We’re back at Villa Park against Liverpool, we always do well there, so it’s going to be difficult for them,” said the England international. He added: “We always make it difficult for them, and it’s going to be an enjoyable last home game of the season.”
Those comments are unlikely to ease the anxiety among Liverpool supporters given the current mood surrounding the club. Other opposition players have also targeted Liverpool’s vulnerabilities. Chelsea’s Levi Colwill claimed his side deserved all three points at Anfield, while Calum McFarlane openly admitted his team had zeroed in on Curtis Jones’ unfamiliar role at right-back. It’s clear that opponents believe Liverpool can be exposed right now.
Despite Villa’s recent improvement under Unai Emery, Liverpool’s historical record at Villa Park remains strong. The Reds have lost only once in their last 11 league visits there since 2011 and are unbeaten in the last five away games against Villa in all competitions. However, current form poses a greater concern than history. Liverpool started brightly against Chelsea before once again becoming passive with and without the ball—a pattern that has frustrated fans in recent months.
Watkins also hinted that Villa could benefit physically as their Europa League exertions begin to ease. The 30-year-old admitted Sunday’s draw at Burnley was tough after their European exploits but still called it “a good point.” Villa now return home level on points with Liverpool and sensing vulnerability. Given the atmosphere around Anfield, another poor result on Friday would only intensify scrutiny on Slot and his struggling side.