The view from Villa Park

How are Villa fans feeling about our visit?

Villa fans always look forward to big games and this is no different. The two clubs have a lot of history and although we're not the side we were two or three years ago we are still capable of pulling out results. Beating Bolton away last week is a big boost and should lift confidence within the club. This is a transitional and experimental time at Villa Park and we have struggled against the bigger teams this season.

One song we're bound to hear?

You can guarantee we'll be singing about Petrov, Agbonlahor and Cuellar but no matter who's playing one man that will always be sung about is Paul McGrath!

Where can travelling fans get a pint?

Away fans tend to go to The Witton Arms, it's a pub pretty much designed for travelling supporters. Star City isn't too far away either and has plenty of places to get a drink from.

Players we should be worried about?

Our front two have the potential to cause a lot of problems. Gabby Agbonlahor is having a terrific season and this could prove to be his best yet. Darren Bent is always a threat and his scoring record speaks for itself. As long as they get some decent delivery (from the likes of Albrighton and N'Zogbia) they're a fair bet for a goal.

And players you'll be worried about?

Luis Suarez has been Liverpool's top man this season and plays some really good football. He knows how to trouble opposition defenders and is certainly a threat. Charlie Adam has also been solid in midfield and playing against an area that I would consider our weakest, it could make or break the game.

What about the prospect of Stewart Downing returning in a red shirt?

I don't think he'll get too hostile a reaction. He did well for Villa, especially in his final season. I don't think Liverpool have seen the best of him yet but what better team to play his best against? Always a threat with his strengths being his crossing and turn of pace.

How big a loss is goalkeeper Shay Given to injury?

Losing Shay is a big loss. He's been good for us so far and is a favourite in the stands. Brad Guzan will step in and isn't a bad 'keeper himself. He made a few crucial saves against Bolton last week and this will be a big chance to prove himself. I'm hoping he can step up.

Best way to beat Villa?

Isolate the strikers and cut off the wingmen. If we play a 4-4-2 as we did in the last game then we'll be far better than we were when playing a 4-3-3. Agger and Skrtel will have to be sharp to keep up with Agbonlahor and Bent but if Johnson and Enrique can cut off Albrighton and N'Zogbia then you're half way there.

Best and worst thing about being a Villa fan?

The worst thing about being a Villa fan is how close we can go before throwing it all away. We've had a few trips to Wembley in the last few years and are were within touching distance of the League Cup, FA Cup and Champions League football but blew it at the final hurdle. The best thing is supporting a club with a rich history and supporting a club that teams want to play against. Knowing that we're very often on the cusp of achieving something is also a lot of fun! 

Prediction?

2-2.