Late Change in Liverpool vs. Aston Villa Lineup – A Positive Sign for the Reds!
A last-minute adjustment has been confirmed ahead of Liverpool’s Premier League clash against Aston Villa tonight.
Both Unai Emery and Arne Slot are managing injury concerns. Aston Villa will be without Boubacar Kamara, Pau Torres, Ross Barkley, and Amadou Onana, while three other players face late fitness tests (avfc.co.uk).
Liverpool also have key absentees, with Joe Gomez, Cody Gakpo, and Tyler Morton ruled out. However, Curtis Jones is available again after serving his suspension against Wolves on Sunday.
Referee Swap for Aston Villa vs. Liverpool
While official starting line-ups will be announced 75 minutes before kickoff, one notable change has already taken place.
As reported by The Sheffield Star (via The Mirror), Stuart Attwell was initially assigned to officiate but has been replaced by Craig Pawson. This switch comes shortly after another referee change in the Championship match between Leeds and Sunderland.
Liverpool’s Impressive Record Under Pawson
Liverpool supporters may view this officiating change as a good omen. According to Transfermarkt, the Reds have won their last 10 matches with Pawson in charge, including the 2022 FA Cup final (on penalties), a dominant 6-1 win over Leeds, and a 4-0 Carabao Cup victory against Tottenham.
The last time Liverpool suffered a defeat under Pawson’s officiating was in November 2021 against West Ham—a match marred by controversial decisions, including a missed red card for Aaron Cresswell and a disputed goal conceded by Alisson (BBC Sport).
Aiming for a Smooth Victory
With tensions already high at Villa Park, Liverpool will be eager to claim a crucial win—ideally without refereeing drama. After last week’s fiery Merseyside derby, a straightforward victory would be the ideal scenario for the Reds.
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