Arsenal predicted XI v Aston Villa: Mat Ryan to make debut, first start for Martin Odegaard

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Arsenal suffered a frustrating setback in midweek but will hope to get back to winning ways right away in Saturday’s early Premier League kickoff.

The Gunners were beaten 2-1 by Wolves on Tuesday in a game that saw a controversial red card for David Luiz and a moment of madness from Bernd Leno.

Neither player is available for the trip to Aston Villa, so Mikel Arteta has a couple of decisions to make in terms of team selection.

Luckily, the Arsenal boss is boosted by the return of several players, and there’s a good chance at least one could go straight into the XI.

Brighton loanee Mat Ryan had a hip problem but is available for selection, having trained on Thursday and Friday.

The £35k-a-week goalkeeper is likely to make his Arsenal debut, given Alex Runarsson hasn’t done particularly well when handed the gloves.

Although Pablo Mari is available for selection following a calf injury, Arteta may be hesitant to risk him from the off.

Therefore, we’re likely to see Gabriel Magalhaes back in the line-up alongside Rob Holding, with Hector Bellerin on the right-flank.

Unfortunately, Kieran Tierney remains sidelined, so Cedric Soares will probably continue to fill on on the left flank.

No issues regarding Granit Xhaka and Thomas Partey, who have cemented their places in front of the back four.

Emile Smith Rowe is due a rest, and with Martin Odegaard in the squad, Arteta should opt to bring the Real Madrid loanee in for his first start.

The Norwegian, who Arteta has described as “such a talent” with “special qualities”, has made one appearance for the Gunners, coming on as a substitute against Manchester United.

Nicolas Pepe is finally starting to show his top form out on the left, while Bukayo Saka has been sensational on the right – it’s unlikely either will be budged from the XI.

And up front, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is available, but we feel Arteta will keep faith with Alexandre Lacazette up front.

Arsenal predicted starting XI v Villa (4-2-3-1): Ryan; Bellerin, Holding, Gabriel, Cedric; Partey, Xhaka; Saka, Odegaard, Pepe; Lacazette