Daniel Sturridge marked his second league game back from injury with a superb brace, as Liverpool ran out 3-2 winners against Aston Villa at Anfield.
James Milner scored against his former club inside of a minute to immediately put Tim Sherwood’s defensively-minded side on the back foot and alleviate some of the pressure on Reds boss Brendan Rodgers. The early goal set the tone for a game which was full of attacking flair, but held little in the way of defensive brilliance. England striker Sturridge wasted no time in reminding the Kop what they had been missing in front of goal as he blasted a left-foot volley beyond Brad Guzan on the hour mark.
The Birmingham side, who were unbeaten on their last four visits to Anfield, remained resolute and halved the deficit when Rudy Gestede scored from close range. But seconds later the Reds restored their two-goal advantage as Sturridge converted Philippe Coutinho’s clever pass.
A fine bullet header from Benin international Gestede once again gave Villa hope but it was not enough as they dropped into the relegation zone for the first time this season. The pressure on Rodgers has been momentarily lifted but upcoming games against Everton, Tottenham and Southampton could go a long way to deciding who the Liverpool manager is come Christmas.
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