The Premier League has confirmed that Liverpool's upcoming match against Aston Villa will mark the debut of Nike's latest and final matchball for the season. The Reds are set to visit Villa Park on Wednesday to face Unai Emery's side.

This encounter presents Liverpool with an opportunity to extend its lead over Arsenal to 10 points in the race for the Premier League title. Additionally, it offers fans a first glimpse of the new ball in a competitive setting.

The Nike Flight Ball, which will be featured in matches from now until the conclusion of the 2024/25 Premier League season, is a modern take on the classic Nike Total 90s football. It celebrates Nike's 25th anniversary as the official ball supplier for the league.

In a statement released on its website, the Premier League detailed the advanced technology incorporated into the ball. "Built with Aerowsculpt technology with grooves debased into the casing, this allows the air to travel seamlessly around the ball delivering truer flight," it explained. "It is crafted with shorter seem length to allow for a sweeter touch."

It also announced: "The Nike Flight Premier League ball will make its debut appearance this season on Wednesday 19 February, when Aston Villa host Liverpool."

Premier League table and state of play

Liverpool secured a 2-1 victory over Wolves on Sunday, restoring its seven-point lead over Arsenal, who had bagged three points just over 24 hours earlier. With the Gunners not playing in midweek, it presents an opportunity for Liverpool to pile on even more pressure on Mikel Arteta's squad ahead of the weekend.

On the other hand, Villa currently occupies ninth place in the table and is aiming to climb higher in its quest to compete in the Champions League next season. The team is currently trailing fifth-placed Bournemouth by five points.

Liverpool.com says: Aston Villa will be a big test for Liverpool but the Reds would give themselves a huge boost by getting a victory. Moving 10 points clear, even having played a game more, would really put Arsenal under pressure.

If Arne Slot's men can get seven points from the next three games — against Aston Villa, Manchester City and Newcastle — that could go a long way to securing the Premier League title. With Arsenal struggling for attacking numbers with so many injuries at the moment, giving it no encouragement when it comes to closing the gap could be crucial.