Aston Villa v Liverpool - Early Team News

Last updated : 18 December 2002 By Gary Purvis
Dietmar Hamann is ruled out with a shin injury, but Markus Babbel is hoping to regain his place in the first eleven. Jerzy Dudek is also expected to start in goal.

Sami Hyypia, rested for Liverpool's game at Sunderland, is expected to return to the centre of defence.

Emile Heskey has recovered from his recent ankle injury and could start up front alongside Milan Baros or Michael Owen.

Team (from): Dudek, Babbel, Hyypia, Henchoz, Carragher, Murphy, Gerrard, Riise, Owen, Heskey, Baros, Diouf, Diao, Smicer, Traore, Kirkland, Biscan.