Ex-goalkeeper David James has stated his belief that Liverpool are favourites ahead of their blockbuster FA Cup semi-final encounter with Aston Villa this weekend.

Both Liverpool and Villa prepare for arguably the biggest match of their respective seasons so far, when they square off against each other at the famous Wembley Stadium on Sunday.

Given the historic nature of upsets in the cup, it is anybody's guess as to who will come out on top and James I backing the Reds although he does give Villa a fighting chance.

James told the Liverpool Echo: "I think when you look at the Villa side, you have to say Liverpool are big favourites.

"Villa are in their best form of the season, if you take away maybe the opening four or five games.

"They've had four wins from seven games under Tim Sherwood, so in that sense they should have some buoyancy and confidence going into the game."