Arsenal defender doubtful ahead of Aston Villa game

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has said that Gabriel Magalhaes will be assessed ahead of the Premier League meeting against Aston Villa.

The Gunners welcome Villa to the Emirates Stadium on Sunday evening and they may need a victory to reclaim top spot in the standings.

Magalhaes missed a part of the training session earlier today and when asked about it, Arteta said that he will be assessed before the game.

There are some other players with minor knocks, but the manager refused to reveal their identities ahead of a crucial fixture at home.

Arsenal were beaten 1-0 at Aston Villa before the turn of the year. They had plenty of big chances at Villa Park and should have won.

The club will be hoping to avenge the result at the Emirates Stadium. The players will have extra rest when compared to the Villans.

Arsenal were in Champions League action against Bayern on Tuesday while Villa hosted Lille in the Conference League on Thursday.