Arsenal’s attacking dominance this season extends to set pieces, with their corner count among the highest in the league. Averaging 6.43 corners per game in the league, Arsenal have established themselves as a significant threat from dead-ball situations.

At home, their average rises significantly to 8.6 corners per game, with the Gunners securing 8+ corners in 7 of their 10 league matches at the Emirates.

Villa’s away form further supports this selection. The Midlands club concedes an average of 5.4 corners per game on the road, with 5+ corners conceded in 6 of their 10 away fixtures this season. Arsenal’s ability to sustain attacking pressure makes this target highly achievable.

Kai Havertz’s physical approach to the game often places him on the referees radar. The German averages 1.64 fouls per game and has committed at least 1 foul in all but 1 of his 24 starts this season. Moreover, Havertz has registered 2+ fouls in 13 of those matches, underlining his involvement in combative midfield duels.

Against a robust and disciplined Villa defence, Havertz will likely find himself in numerous physical contests. Add to this his recent frustrations in front of goal, and the emotional edge to his performances could make multiple fouls a strong possibility.

Villa’s rising star, Morgan Rogers, may be known for his attacking prowess, but his combative side is worth noting. Averaging 1.22 fouls per game, Rogers has committed at least 1 foul in 8 of his last 9 matches and 2+ fouls in his last 4 games.

Arsenal’s fluid midfield will likely exacerbate Rogers’ foul count. With their midfield trio averaging 3 fouls won per game, Rogers’ involvement in defensive transitions may see him collect multiple infractions.

Despite his inconsistency in front of goal, Havertz remains a central figure in Arsenal’s attack, particularly with Bukayo Saka sidelined. The German averages 2.36 shots per game, with 0.93 of those on target. Havertz has hit the target in his last 7 matches and 10 of his last 11, showcasing his ability to trouble opposing goalkeepers.

Villa’s defensive setup may limit clear-cut chances, but Havertz’s determination to get into shooting positions makes this selection highly probable.

Defending Arsenal’s left flank is no small task, and Matty Cash will have his hands full against the likes of Lewis-Skelly and Leandro Trossard. Cash averages 1.24 fouls per game and has committed 2+ fouls in 4 of his last 5 matches.

His aggressive style and versatility – shifting between right-back and right-wing – often leave him out of position, increasing his booking potential. Already on 5 yellow cards this season, Cash has picked up 4 of those in his last 9 games. Against Arsenal’s potent left side, avoiding a booking will be a significant challenge.

Arsenal’s determination to keep the pressure on league leaders Liverpool will likely manifest in a dominant performance at the Emirates. Averaging 5.14 shots on target per game in the league, this figure rises to a remarkable 6.6 shots on target at home. Arsenal have managed 5+ shots on target in all but 2 of their home matches this season.

Villa’s defensive frailties away from home are evident, with the side conceding an average of 5.1 shots on target per away game. This figure has been consistent in their last 5 away defeats, making this selection a near-certainty.

Rogers’ willingness to test goalkeepers is evident in his stats. With an average of 1.89 shots per game, he has attempted 2+ shots in 7 of his last 9 matches.

He also took 3 shots against Arsenal in their earlier meeting in the season, showcasing that even against high-calibre defences, he doesn’t shy away. His confidence in front of goal, and current trends makes this a solid pick.

Having backed Rogers to take 2 shots in the previous selection, it seems logical to now back him to hit the target with at least one of them. The talented English forward has taken centre stage for Villa, stepping up admirably in Duran’s recent absence. Rogers is averaging 1.89 shots per game, with 0.59 of those on target.

His sharpness in recent outings is evident, having tested the keeper in 4 of his last 5 starts, with 3 goals to his name in that period. Given Arsenal’s tendency to dominate possession but leave occasional gaps in transition, Rogers’ knack for finding space could see him register at least one shot on target.