After losing their previous four league games, and six of their last seven in all competitions, spluttering Liverpool finally showed signs of life at Anfield.

Arne Slot's troubled team were gifted their opening goal in first half stoppage-time when Villa keeper Emiliano Martinez's wayward pass was intercepted by Salah, who slotted into the empty net for his fifth goal this season.

The Egypt forward's milestone 250th goal in all competitions for Liverpool was followed by Ryan Gravenberch's 58th minute deflected strike, wrapping up the Reds' first league victory since they beat Everton on September 20.

Liverpool's win, which leaves them third but seven points behind Arsenal, was well-timed ahead of a crucial week featuring clashes with Real Madrid and Manchester City.