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Picking the positives out of a 2-0 defeat is tough.

But if Saturday’s performance had arrived during difference circumstances there wouldn’t be too much worry for the future.

Aston Villa were certainly inspired against Liverpool, showing more purpose, attacking intent and fight, a fast-paced approach largely influenced by the returning Fabian Delph and an in-form Alan Hutton.

Sadly the same old problems persist. They just can’t find a finishing touch in the final third.

Boss Paul Lambert reckons Villa’s fortunes will soon turn around, especially if they continue to create chances like on Saturday.

Can you spot yourself in the Villa Park crowd against Liverpool

Alan Hutton shares his opinion and enjoyed playing in a more bold formation against the Reds.

“I thought we had a lot more chances and were a little bit more direct,” he said.

“We got balls into Christian (Benteke), there were some chances, it just didn’t quite drop for us but I believe if we keep going the way we are going it will change.

"We do still want to play out from the back and keep possession of the ball but when the opportunity came up to maybe cross we took it.

“I understand the crowd being disappointed but if you look at it overall you can see we are really trying to work at something and do something different and it will pay off.”

That Liverpool made 42 clearances during the game is an indication of how willing Villa were to get the ball into the box.

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It was arguably when Brendan Rodgers cut out the threat of Hutton, by replacing left-back Alberto Moreno with Luis Enrique, that changed the game, though.

Rodgers backed his under-fire pal Lambert to turn it around.

“I have a lot of empathy for every manager, but in particular Paul,” he said.

“We came through the Championship together, got promoted together and were appointed at the same time.

“He is trying to develop young players but he does not have the finances to compete.

“They don’t have the resources to be top four, top six. He is doing the best he can.”