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. Rice has been integral to Arsenal’s success across all competitions this season as he continues to prove himself as one of the best midfielders in the world, with Mikel Arteta cursing his absence for such an important battle in the title race