Arsenal face a critical encounter with surprise Premier League title challengers Aston Villa on Tuesday night, but their assignment has been made more challenging by the absence of Declan Rice.
The Gunners, who were defeated by Villa in dramatic circumstances earlier in December, can move five points clear of second-placed Manchester City with victory at the Emirates Stadium, but their former manager Unai Emery has masterminded an 11-match winning streak for the Villans. Conquering them will prove a mighty task.
