Ollie Watkins and Morgan Rogers: The Key Threats to Liverpool | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Selection Dilemma Ahead of Aston Villa Clash: Dave Davis Unpacks Arne Slot’s Press Conference

Liverpool head into a defining moment of their season as they prepare to take on Aston Villa at Villa Park. With the Premier League title race finely balanced, Arne Slot’s press conference ahead of the game carried weighty significance. On the Post Conference Presser podcast for Anfield Index, Dave Davis dissected the key talking points, from selection dilemmas to Villa’s threats, offering a sharp analysis of what lies ahead for the Reds.

Bradley or Trent: Who Starts at Right-Back?

One of the major debates from the press conference revolved around Liverpool’s right-back situation. As Davis pointed out, Conor Bradley’s emergence has given Slot a real decision to make. “We all know how good Trent is,” he said, “but Bradley’s form has been outstanding. It wouldn’t be a shock if he got the nod.” The young Northern Irishman has impressed with his defensive solidity and attacking drive, and Davis emphasised that Slot’s tactical setup against Villa’s dynamic frontline could dictate the decision.

However, with Trent Alexander-Arnold fit and available, there’s always the temptation to start Liverpool’s vice-captain. “If you’re asking me what I think Slot will do,” Davis continued, “I’d be surprised if Trent didn’t start. His passing range is what separates him.” This highlights the balancing act Slot faces—prioritising defensive security or embracing Trent’s game-changing creativity.

Aston Villa’s Key Threats: Ollie Watkins and Morgan Rogers

Aston Villa’s attacking power has been a talking point all season, and Davis wasted no time in addressing the two names that could cause Liverpool real problems: Ollie Watkins and Morgan Rogers.

Photo: IMAGO

“Ollie Watkins is one of the most in-form strikers in the league,” Davis stressed. “His movement, his ability to get in behind—Liverpool’s high line has to be aware of that.” With Watkins’ pace and finishing ability, Villa have a striker who thrives against teams that push up the pitch, something Liverpool have been known for under Slot.

Morgan Rogers, meanwhile, was singled out as a player Liverpool cannot ignore. “People don’t talk about him enough,” Davis remarked. “He’s got that unpredictability, that bit of magic. If you switch off for a second, he’ll punish you.” With the Villa Park crowd behind them, Unai Emery’s side will look to exploit any defensive lapses, and Rogers is exactly the kind of player to capitalise.

Arne Slot’s Approach and the Midfield Battle

As Davis explained, Slot’s Liverpool side is still evolving, with the Dutch manager looking to stamp his tactical identity on the team. “The midfield battle is where this game is won or lost,” Davis observed. “Villa are aggressive, they press well, and if Liverpool don’t control the tempo, it could be a long night.”

One name that cropped up in the discussion was Alexis Mac Allister, who Davis described as “absolutely crucial” to how Liverpool function. “Mac Allister’s ability to dictate play, to find those pockets of space—it’s massive. If he plays well, Liverpool win this game.” With Villa’s pressing intensity under Emery, Mac Allister’s composure and passing range could be key.

The Bigger Picture: Three Points or Bust?

Davis didn’t shy away from the reality of the situation—this is a must-win for Liverpool. “If you’re serious about winning the title, these are the games you have to come through,” he stated. With Arsenal breathing down their necks, there is no room for error.

“A game ahead for the first time—psychologically, that’s huge,” Davis pointed out. “If Liverpool put the pressure on Arsenal, it’s massive. If they slip up, you’re giving them the advantage.”

As the Reds prepare to face a Villa side unbeaten at home in recent months, Davis summed it up perfectly: “It won’t be easy, but if Liverpool want to be champions, they have to find a way.”