Zinchenko almost scored from the halfway line in Arsenal’s home clash versus Aston Villa. The first half has proven to be a cagey affair with Arsenal doing most of the probing but failing to break the deadlock.

The Gunners have already spurned a plethora of chances, coming close through Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka.

Midway through first half, a blasted clearance from Martinez fell to Zinchenko who decided to have a pop. He spotted the keeper some distance from the sticks and elected to shoot rather than circulate the ball.

Zinchenko almost scored from halfway line but his shot went agonizingly wide of Martinez’s goal. Both teams continue to probe for the opener with Villa content to sit back and absorb Arsenal’s attack.

The title hopefuls have squandered some big opportunities but Villa have shown they have threats of their own. Ollie Watkins found the underside of the post after Villa hit Arsenal on a quick counter late on.

Arsenal with an opportunity to return to the summit

Liverpool’s loss at Anfield to Crystal Palace affords Arsenal an opportunity to return to the summit of the Premier League table should they find the three points today.

Eberechi Eze’s 14th minute goal consigned Liverpool to a second successive defeat in this week.

Arsenal now have a chance to be outright league leaders with a win versus the villains.

Aston Villa in race for Champion’s League football

Aston Villa themselves are hoping to capitalize on Tottenham’s slip up in the race for Champion’s League football next season.

Tottenham suffered a shocking 4-0 loss away to Newcastle yesterday, handing Aston Villa the incentive in today’s clash.