Arsenal drop team news hint for Aston Villa clash as Mikel Arteta faces Declan Rice decision

Arsenal may have dropped a huge team news hint ahead of their clash with Aston Villa on Saturday afternoon, with some huge points at stake. The Gunners currently lead the way in the Premier League after 15 matches, but the title race could be the most open it has been in years.

Liverpool have been resurgent this season under Jurgen Klopp, sitting just two points behind in second and with hopes of another trophy lift. Villa sit third ahead of Manchester City in fourth, with the former beating the latter 1-0 in a head-to-head clash in midweek that they dominated.

While the Villains were on the fringes of conversations surrounding the title, they thrusted themselves into the forefront with the victory over the Champions. Unai Emery has his team playing well, with the best home record in the league, but they will have to back that up when Arsenal visit.

The Gunners have been far from their fluid best at times this season, with the priority being their defensive ability, with the forward line more than capable of creating. There was a glimpse of that forward line clicking once more when the Gunners faced Luton Town in midweek.

In an open game, goals from Gabriel Martinelli, Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz appeared to earn a point at Kenilworth Road until deep in stoppage time. That’s where Declan Rice popped up, firing a header into the back of the net, sparking jubilant scenes from the away end and the bench.

READ MORE: Arsenal news and transfers LIVE – Jurrien Timber update, Martinelli concern, Luiz audition

READ MORE: Paul Merson and Chris Sutton disagree on Aston Villa vs Arsenal prediction amid Saka warning

With a busy festive period on top of City’s struggles, it will be down to Mikel Arteta to capitalise and put his team in the driving seat to be crowned champions. A win over Villa would certainly help with that, not only in adding another three points to the board, but by creating a bigger gap towards a potential title rival.

With a thin squad at his disposal due to injuries, there are few options for the manager to pick from, but Arsenal may have already hinted at a start for one key star. That being Rice, as the pre-match hype graphic showed the star front and centre, suggesting he could be set to feature again.

There is no guarantee that may be the case, however, so long as he is fit, the midfielder is likely to start due to his importance to the side since his arrival.