Former FA Cup-winning Liverpool captain Mark Wright thinks that his old club will be boosted by the return of Martin Skrtel and Steven Gerrard from suspension for their semi-final with Aston Villa.

Skrtel's presence, in particular, will be a boost for manager Brendan Rodgers, according to the ex-Reds defender, who played 210 times for the side.

"When people like Martin and Stevie G come back into the side and you strengthen the whole squad for an FA Cup semi-final, it's a major plus, and Martin Skrtel for me has been the mainstay at the back. His performances have been exceptional," he said.

As a man with experiences of playing in high-pressure cup games in a red shirt, Wright knows well the unique requirements of an FA Cup semi-final.

Tactically, he believes the Reds should approach the game like any other - building a solid base and allowing Liverpool's attacking players to thrive.

He continued: "When you've got players like Sterling and Coutinho in your side, Sterling's scoring goals, Coutinho - give him the ball, he's making things happen at all times.

"Get them on the ball in dangerous areas and Liverpool win the game. When you play in a semi-final, you've worked all season to get somewhere and you're one step away.

"So I think that's always in your mind, and then when you go out there it's all forgotten because you shut it off and it's another game again."