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Arsenal v Aston Villa: Preview

Striker Emmanuel Adebayor and goalkeeper Manuel Almunia could both return to Arsenal’s starting-line-up for tomorrow’s Barclays Premier League clash at home to Aston Villa after recovering from injury.

Adebayor damaged his ankle against Stoke a fortnight ago but is back in the squad, while Almunia has returned after taking a blow to the head in the victory over Manchester United last weekend and should start in place of Lukasz Fabianski.

However, the Gunners will be without Robin van Persie who is suspended, and Emmanuel Eboue who is still struggling with a knee problem.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger admitted he is wary of fifth-placed Villa, who he believes are one of several sides capable of breaking into the top four.

Martin O’Neill’s team go into the game on the back of two consecutive defeats in the league, while the Gunners are on a high after getting their season back on track last weekend following the defeat to Stoke and a last-gasp 4-4 draw with Tottenham.

“They are physically strong and technically efficient,” Wenger said of Villa.

“They have a lot of pace and can adjust their style. They can play in the air and on the ground.

“They look good. I wouldn’t rule out some other teams like Spurs, Manchester City, Newcastle maybe and Hull who have broken in.

“It’s very, very open now. It’s tougher this year and more interesting, and it looks like anyone can drop points, which is good for us.”

He added: “It’s a massive game - a big, big test after the United game. We’ve built up belief and this game will give us a big answer.”

Villa boss Martin O’Neill admits he was “staggered” at reports Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger was perceived to be under pressure before last weekend’s win over Manchester United.

He said: “Nothing surprises me any more in the game - but have to say that did.

“It is staggering really considering what he has done for Arsenal and the game here.

“I am not saying I am his closest friend and that I agree with everything he says and vice-versa.

“But what he has done for Arsenal has been remarkable and what he has done for the Premier League has been terrific.

“He has built three or four great teams over 10-12 years. He is a builder of sides and I’ve no doubt he will build another side capable of contesting and possibly winning [the title].

“They have still remained in the top four and I just think they will come again. I don’t think they are out of it (the title race) this season and their performance against Manchester United was remarkable.

“It was in deep contrast to their performance at Stoke. They are a top quality side.”

Villa midfielder Stiliyan Petrov and right-back Luke Young could return from injuries for the clash.

Petrov has missed the last three games with a hamstring injury while Young was ruled out of the games with Slavia Prague and Middlesbrough with a thigh problem.

Striker John Carew remains a doubt with a hip injury and, if he is side-lined, Gabriel Agbonlahor could again be supported by James Milner in the second striker role.

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