Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard singled out Declan Rice for special praise after a stunning individual display in an unfamiliar right back position against Brighton & Hove Albion which kept the club’s Premier League title aspirations firmly aflame.

One player Arsenal continue to follow is Jeremy Jacquet — although having signed a new contract until 2029 in May, the 20-year-old French centre-back would command a considerable fee.

Arsenal come into this game on the back of a nervy 2-1 win over Brighton & Hove Albion, which saw them retain their two-point lead over City at the top of the table. Villa, meanwhile, needed a brace from substitute Ollie Watkins, to notch up a comeback 2-1 win away to Chelsea, thus extending their winning run to 11 games.

Declan Rice extraordinary in new role as David Raya steps up - Gunners make hard work of victory at Emirates Stadium despite impressive showings from several individuals

After 15 league games this season, Arsenal have suffered 15 injuries but the number of absentees have largely been a subplot

Sports Mole previews Tuesday's Premier League clash between Arsenal and Aston Villa, including predictions, team news and possible lineups.

Martin Odegaard's first goal of the season helped a fortuitous Arsenal side secure a nervy 2-1 win over Brighton to stay top of the Premier League table. The Gunners captain lashed in a superb effort early on before a Georginio Rutter own goal looked to set them on their way.

Arsenal have Gabriel back from injury when they resume their Premier League title bid against Brighton. Gabriel has been out since early November with an adductor injury but he was spotted with the Arsenal squad on their pre-match walk on Saturday morning, raising hope he is about to return.