Aston Villa manager, Steven Gerrard’s return to Liverpool ends in a loss on Merseyside, as Salah’s cool penalty secures Klopp’s men all three points in this thrilling Saturday showdown!

Aston Villa manager, Steven Gerrard, made a losing return to Anfield, as Liverpool continued their pursuit of English Premier League (EPL) leaders, Manchester City, with a hard-fought triumph.

Former Liverpool captain, Gerrard, was predictably given a loud reception, after playing 710 games and scoring 186 goals for the Reds, whilst winning the Champions League, FA Cup, UEFA Cup and League Cup.

Gerrard’s response to the adoration was low-key, as his Villa side, who had won three of his first four games in charge since arriving from Rangers, tried to frustrate the home fans and make life difficult for Liverpool.

Villa achieved this, aided by fine saves from keeper, Emiliano Martínez until they were finally undone in the 67th minute, when Tyrone Mings’ ungainly challenge floored Mohamed Salah in the penalty area.

The Egyptian forward then stepped up and scored the resulting spot-kick in a typically emphatic fashion.

Substitute, Danny Ings, almost took advantage of some late confusion between Liverpool keeper, Alisson, and Joël Matip which left the travelling supporters screaming in vain for a penalty.

However, Jürgen Klopp’s side saw out the win to take all three points and stay in the hunt for EPL top spot.

Liverpool are now on 37 points, with leaders City, who beat Wolverhampton Wanderers 1-0 earlier on Saturday, on 38 points. Chelsea are third with 36 points. Meanwhile, Aston Villa drop to 12th, with 19 EPL points from 16 games so far.