The Gunners had the chance to return to the top of the table with their 11th league win of the calendar year, but they failed to capitalise on their chances.
Havertz looks sharp before massive clash with Aston Villa
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Villa twice hit the woodwork at the Emirates. They eventually found the opening goal in the 84th minute through Leon Bailey who had an open net at his disposal.
Three minutes later, Ollie Watkins put the game to bed. He scored a wonderful counter-attacking goal with a lovely dink shot over goalkeeper David Raya.
It was a day to forget for the Gunners, but Odegaard still had a good outing until his forced substitution.
The €35 million signing has been in sublime form throughout the year. Against Villa, he had 66 touches, completing three take-ons and winning five of his duels.
He also made three ball recoveries, winning 100 per cent of his tackles. The 25-year-old created two chances, but he was unable to turn the game in Arsenal’s favour.
Odegaard was surprisingly substituted in the 79th minute when the scores were level, but manager Mikel Arteta later revealed that he was struggling with a leg problem.
Arsenal are now two points behind Manchester City in the league with six games to play. They will need the Cityzens to drop points to have any chance of winning the title.
They first have to concentrate on the second leg of the Champions League quarter-final at Bayern Munich. After a 2-2 draw at home, they face a huge challenge on Wednesday.
Odegaard was instrumental in the first leg with a man of the match performance and the fans will be hoping that he will be deemed fit for the midweek game in Munich.
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