Former striker Dean Saunders believes that Liverpool will need to negate the threat posed by Aston Villa star Christian Benteke in order to claim victory in the FA Cup semi-final.

Benteke has been in brilliant form in recent times, scoring eight goals in his last six Premier League appearances, and he will undoubtedly be vital to Villa's plans if they are to overcome the Reds at Wembley on Sunday.

From Liverpool's point of view , stopping the Belgian striker will be of paramount importance in order to claim a victory and former Reds' striker Saunders is keen on emphasizing this fact.

The 50-year old said: "How they handle him (Benteke) - and more importantly the supply to him - could well decide the outcome of what is a huge match for both clubs.

"I know Tim Sherwood and I'm pretty sure his tactics will be quite simple. He will hammer home to his players to hit the front men early and try to prey on Liverpool's weaknesses.

"Brendan will be treating this like a World Cup final and he'll implore his side to do everything in their power to cut out the supply of crosses into the box."