Arsenal could keep faith in midfielder Mikel Merino as a central striker, even if Viktor Gyokeres and Gabirel Jesus return from injury.
No Arsenal player has scored more goals than Merino in 2025, with the Spain international on target against Brentford on Wednesday.
And boss Mikel Arteta admits Merino’s performances up top mean he remains an option even if Gyokeres and Jesus return to fitness.
“I think he’s at least deserved to be in the thinking behind it for the way he plays and the impact he brings to the team, so it’s a yes,” Arteta said.
“And playing together, these are the things that we prepared during the summer thanks to the team that we have, and until now we have not been able to do it.”
Arsenal hope Declan Rice shakes off the calf strain he suffered against Brentford in time to face Aston Villa on Saturday lunchtime.
Cristhian Mosquera is doubtful due to an ankle problem while his compatriot Gabriel is still out with a thigh injury.
Villa have climbed to third place in the table thanks to four consecutive victories under former Gunners boss Unai Emery.
“Well, for what they’ve done, the way they’ve played and won matches, they’re certainly a team that’s in great form and we know that,” Arteta added.
“We obviously know the manager and the incredible job he did there. So we know the test tomorrow – but we still think it’s an opportunity.”
A victory from kick-off would send a message to the chasing pack, with second-placed Manchester City facing surprise package Sunderland and fourth-placed Chelsea traveling to Bournemouth.
“Every time you win a match you get a little closer to your goal and that’s the only thing we can do,” the Spaniard said.
“We need to focus on our performance and prepare well for tomorrow. We know the kind of game we are going to play and we are preparing for it to fulfill our potential.”
