Arsenal hammered Aston Villa 4-1 to secure a statement victory in the Premier League title race. In the early stages of the match, Arsenal were repeatedly exposed as Ollie Watkins was making the most of long balls. They had opportunities of their own but went into the break frustrated. However, just seconds after play resumed, a corner from Bukayo Saka found Gabriel Magalhaes who managed a crucial touch, watching the ball bounce into the net. A few minutes later, the second goal came courtesy of some magic from Martin Odegaard and a superb finish by Martin Zubimendi.

The scoreline improved further when Leandro Trossard fired in from outside the box, followed by Gabriel Jesus adding the finishing touch with an impressive curled shot. A late consolation goal from Watkins denied David Raya a clean sheet, despite his remarkable double save. Express Sport rates and slates the Arsenal players…

Arsenal player ratings vs Aston Villa

David Raya – 7

He was lucky not to be called into action more in the first half as Aston Villa failed to capitalise on their opportunities. He had very little to do in the second half apart from distributing the ball calmly and accurately. However, he was tested late in the game and somehow managed to deny John McGinn, only to be beaten by Ollie Watkins minutes later.

Jurrien Timber – 7

A fantastic tackle on Watkins to the crowd’s delight down on the right. His pass to Leandro Trossard, with a clever touch, set up the third goal.

William Saliba – 8

An excellent last-ditch challenge on Ollie Watkins, sliding in to prevent what seemed like a certain goal for the forward. A robust performance to keep Watkins at bay.

Gabriel Magalhaes – 9

Just seconds into the second half, the Brazilian, making his first start since returning from injury, rose highest from a Bukayo Saka corner and got the crucial touch to put the Gunners ahead. Won a very brave defensive header, stooping low and taking a kick from Tielemans for his troubles.

Piero Hincapie – 7

Delivered the early cross for Gyokeres after shifting from his usual centre-half position to left-back. Solid tackle in the box to prevent Jadon Sancho from scoring.

Martin Zubimendi – 9

Continually impresses in winning the small duels and even the aerial ones; his understanding of these battles allows him to win many more than a man of his stature should. However, it was his flawless finish that gave the Gunners a firm hold early in the second half.

Mikel Merino – 5

Extremely fortunate to remain on the pitch after a challenge on Rogers having already been booked saw him avoid a second yellow card. Overall, a quiet match which passed him by – once again, I feel I need to dedicate more time to observing more of the Spaniard when he’s in midfield.

Martin Odegaard – 9

Displaying such poise and control, his pass for the Zubimendi goal and the duel he won prior to it demonstrated his value to the team. His cross that led to Trossard’s eventual goal was also superb, rounding off another splendid performance as the captain has certainly found his form. He

Bukayo Saka – 6

A subdued and frustrating first half was instantly forgiven when his corner perfectly found Gabriel to give the Gunners the lead. Despite being involved in the action, there should have been a bit more end product from the winger for the second match running.

Viktor Gyokeres – 6

An early headed chance that went over the bar. Lost possession inside his own half, nearly resulting in a goal for Ollie Watkins and had a challenging first half. Brushed the post with a diving header after a good ball in from Trossard. Excellent hold-up play to win the corner that eventually led to the opening goal. Occasionally turned defender with some crucial blocks. 6.

Leandro Trossard – 9

Some fine early deliveries and opportunities created, including a low driven shot saved by Martinez. A fantastic strike in the second half gave the Gunners complete control of the match. Then delivered the perfect pass to Jesus to provide the Gunners with their fourth goal. Another outstanding performance from the Belgian and a strong contender for man of the match.

Substitutes

Christian Norgaard – 6

Stepped in for the dangerously fortunate Mikel Merino in the second half. He held his ground in midfield and accomplished the task assigned to him.

Myles Lewis-Skelly – 5

Caught off guard for the Watkins goal and should have been marking the striker.

Gabriel Jesus – 7

What a stunning entrance that was, with his first touch of the ball he curled a beautiful shot into the corner.

Noni Madueke – N/A

Entered late to assist in closing out the match.

Ben White – N/A

Brought on late to help secure the game.