Steven Gerrard believes Aston Villa will damage Liverpool's title hopes if he marks his return to Anfield with a shock victory.
As a former Reds captain and one of the club's greatest players, emotions will be running high for Gerrard as he tries to plot the downfall of Jurgen Klopp's second-placed side, who are point behind leaders Manchester City and have lost only once in the league this term.
Gerrard spoke warmly of Liverpool and his relationship with Klopp, but still opted to turn the spotlight on them by suggesting defeat would have greater consequences for Liverpool than his own team.