Arsenal vs Aston Villa LIVE
A pivotal clash at the Premier League’s summit takes place today, with table-topping Arsenal hosting high flying Aston Villa. The Gunners come into the match two points clear of second-placed Manchester City but Villa, having won eight straight in the league, would draw level with Mikel Arteta’s men with a victory here.
A brilliant save from David Raya was needed to secure Arsenal’s 2-1 win over Brighton on Saturday, while Villa - who won the reverse fixture between these two sides less than a month ago - most recently came from behind to defeat Chelsea at Stamford Bridge courtesy of a second half double from Ollie Watkins. That was no anomaly for Unai Emery’s side, who have pieced together comebacks in all five of their away league victories this season.
Villa are seeking a club record 12th successive victory in all competitions, with the Gunners aiming to maintain their unbeaten home record. You can follow all the action from Arsenal vs Aston Villa LIVE with our dedicated match blog, featuring expert analysis from Matt Verri at the ground.
Aston Villa early team news: Kamara and Cash suspended, Watkins to start?
With his brace off the bench at Stamford Bridge last weekend, Ollie Watkins has surely done more than enough to start for Aston Villa at the Emirates, replacing the relatively ineffectual Donyell Malen up front.
Some eyebrows were raised when Amadou Onana did not start against Chelsea, but he should do against Arsenal - particularly with Boubacar Kamara suspended.
Matty Cash also picked up a fifth yellow card so will miss the game as well.
Ollie Watkins was back amongst the goals last weekend after a quiet start to the campaign
Arsenal early team news: Rice reportedly out, Gabriel back?
Last time out, Arsenal were able to welcome Gabriel back to their matchday squad for the first time in six weeks, but were without fellow defender Jurrien Timber and Riccardo Calafiori, as Mikel Arteta’s injury woes in defence remain a concern.
In attack, Viktor Gyokeres continues to struggle and could again come out against stronger opposition. Gabriel Martinelli will be pushing to start after a lively cameo against Brighton.
Martin Odegaard scored his first Emirates goal since September to get his side going, and should keep his place ahead of the inconsistent Eberechi Eze.
However, both men could start if reports from The Athletic today that Declan Rice is out with a knee injury are true.
Declan Rice is said to be struggling with a knee injury
Where to watch Arsenal vs Aston Villa
You can follow all of the matchday action right here in Standard Sport’s live blog, featuring expert analysis from Matt Verri at the ground.
Alternatively, the game will be televised live on Sky Sports in the UK, with coverage starting on Sky Sports Premier League at 6.30pm.
Sky Sports subscribers can also catch the contest live online via the Sky Go app and website.
Date, kick-off time and venue
Arsenal vs Aston Villa is scheduled for an 8.15pm GMT kick-off today, December 29.
The match will take place at the Gunners’ home ground, Emirates Stadium, in north London.
Hello and welcome to Standard Sport’s live coverage of Arsenal vs Aston Villa in the Premier League.
Kick-off is fast approaching in what promises to be a fascinating clash between two in-form sides at the summit of England’s top-flight.
Stick with us as we bring you everything you need to know about today’s match, plus play-by-play updates once the action is underway, all accompanied by expert analysis from our very own Matt Verri at the ground.