Liverpool welcome Aston Villa to Anfield on Saturday in what promises to be an exciting game involving two sides which boast an array of attacking talent.
Many players have worn both the red of Liverpool and the claret and blue of Aston Villa over the years, and ahead of this eagerly anticipated fixture, we’ve teamed up with UK sports betting experts Bet442 to look at some of those who have distinguished both clubs.
Peter Crouch
Peter Crouch’s career is widely celebrated for his height, unique style of play, and unmistakable charisma. Standing at 6’7″, Crouch used his height advantage to dominate in the air, while surprising defenders with his technical skills and deft touch, making him a cult hero among supporters.
Crouch joined Aston Villa in 2002 from Portsmouth, but his time at the club was relatively brief. He struggled to cement his place in the first team, scoring only a few goals and ultimately moving to Southampton. Despite this, his spell at Villa helped him develop as a player in the competitive environment of the Premier League.
Crouch signed with Liverpool in 2005, where he found his stride. He gained popularity for his work rate and memorable goals, including a spectacular bicycle kick against Galatasaray in the Champions League. In total, Crouch scored 42 goals for Liverpool and became a fan favourite for his personality and professionalism.
James MilnerÂ
James Milner has had a remarkable Premier League career and is known for his versatility, tireless energy, and dedication. He is one of the few players to reach 600 appearances in the Premier League.
Milner signed with Aston Villa in 2008, establishing himself as a key figure in midfield. His impressive performances and adaptability led to him being named PFA Young Player of the Year in 2010. His form attracted the attention of Manchester City, where he moved in 2010 to pursue titles and trophies.
Milner joined Liverpool in 2015 and has been an essential part of the squad ever since. His leadership, penalty-taking prowess, and willingness to play various roles helped Liverpool win both the Premier League and Champions League. His relentless work ethic and versatility have earned him respect from fans and players alike.
Stan Collymore
Stan Collymore is remembered as one of the most naturally gifted yet enigmatic English strikers of the 1990s. Known for his pace, skill, and finishing ability, Collymore’s career saw highs and lows across various clubs.
Collymore joined his boyhood club, Aston Villa, in 1997 after leaving Liverpool. His time at Villa was marked by flashes of brilliance but ultimately fell short of expectations due to injuries and personal struggles. He managed 7 goals in 46 appearances for the club, struggling to replicate his previous form.
Before his time at Villa, Collymore played two seasons with Liverpool from 1995 to 1997. He formed a potent strike partnership with Robbie Fowler, scoring 35 goals in 81 appearances. His stunning winner against Newcastle United in a 4-3 victory remains one of the Premier League’s most iconic moments.
Steve Staunton
Irish defender Steve Staunton enjoyed two spells at both Liverpool and Aston Villa, establishing himself as a reliable and versatile player capable of playing in multiple defensive roles.
Staunton began his career at Liverpool in 1986 and became a solid defender known for his crossing ability and composure on the ball. Although he moved to Aston Villa after a few seasons, he returned to Liverpool in 1998 for a short stint before ultimately moving back to Villa.
Staunton enjoyed much of his success with Aston Villa, making over 200 appearances for the club across two spells. His leadership and consistency made him a fan favourite, and he later became an experienced figure in Villa’s defence, contributing to their 1994 and 1996 League Cup victories.
Philippe Coutinho
Philippe Coutinho’s journey has been one of dazzling highs and frustrating lows, with moments of brilliance punctuated by challenges in living up to expectations.Â
Coutinho joined Liverpool from Inter Milan in 2013 and quickly became a fan favorite with his creativity, vision, and penchant for scoring long-range goals. He flourished under Jurgen Klopp, becoming the team’s key playmaker and eventually earning a high-profile transfer to Barcelona in 2018.Â
Coutinho joined Aston Villa on loan from Barcelona in January 2022, reuniting with former Liverpool teammate and Villa manager Steven Gerrard. Although he showed glimpses of his former brilliance, his performances were inconsistent. Villa made the deal permanent, but Coutinho struggled to become a regular starter.
Danny IngsÂ
Danny Ings is known for his goal-scoring instincts and resilience, overcoming multiple serious injuries to revive his career.
Ings joined Liverpool in 2015, but his time was marred by injuries, which limited him to just 25 appearances in three seasons. Despite these setbacks, his determination earned him the admiration of Liverpool fans, though he eventually left to get more playing time.
Ings joined Aston Villa in 2021, where he showcased his scoring ability and experience, helping the team with critical goals. His time at Villa has allowed him to play a regular role in the Premier League, showing his capabilities as a forward.
Stephen Warnock
 Warnock was a dependable left-back known for his work ethic, crossing ability, and defensive skills.
Warnock began his career at Liverpool, where he showed promise but struggled to secure a consistent starting role. He made over 60 appearances for Liverpool but eventually sought more regular playtime elsewhere.
Warnock joined Aston Villa in 2009 and became a key member of their backline. He enjoyed some of the best years of his career at Villa, helping the team reach the 2010 League Cup final and even earning a call-up to the England national team due to his form.
