Emi Martinez’s fitness for Saturday’s match against Arsenal hangs in the balance and the goalkeeper will undergo a late fitness test. Arsenal could get a boost as they may face a Villa without their No.1 shot-stopper, who came through the ranks with the Gunners. Martinez was scheduled to start on Wednesday night against Brighton, but a back injury prevented him from completing his warm-up.

Martinez was changed out of the starting line-up and replaced by Marco Bizot, who stepped in at the eleventh hour. Despite an early blunder, Bizot played a key role in Villa’s victory over Brighton, making a vital late save to thwart Danny Welbeck in the 4-3 triumph on the south coast. Ahead of the Arsenal clash, Unai Emery provided an update on Martinez’s fitness during his pre-match press conference.

“We will train this afternoon. He didn’t train yesterday, but it is very important for him how the passing hours are to feel better,” explained the Villa manager. “Until the last moment I don’t know if he will be available or not tomorrow.”

If Martinez is ruled out, Emery will select Bizot for his fourth league start of the season. “We have Marco, and Marco is a fantastic guy and professional,” said Emery. “He accepts his role. He signed here to be the sub of Emi Martinez.

“He is ready when he is available and awaits his moment. He is so mature and responsible.”

Villa are aiming for their seventh consecutive victory in all competitions on Saturday as they face the league leaders. Arsenal have suffered only one defeat in their last 21 Premier League away matches, losing 1-0 at Liverpool in August.

Each of Arsenal’s previous three away losses has come without scoring a goal, and the Gunners remain undefeated in 30 away matches when they’ve managed to score at least once.