Arsenal's injury woes have deepened with the news that key midfielder Declan Rice is set to miss the crucial Premier League clash against Aston Villa. The England international reportedly sustained a knee injury during Arsenal's recent 2-1 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion.

Rice completed the full 90 minutes against Brighton, even filling in at right-back due to other defensive injuries. However, a late fitness test revealed that he is "not quite ready" to face Aston Villa. The club is taking a cautious approach, not wanting to risk further aggravating the injury. Initial reports suggest that the knee issue is not expected to be a long-term problem.

Rice's absence is a significant blow for Arsenal, especially considering the importance of the match against a high-flying Aston Villa side. Villa, managed by former Arsenal boss Unai Emery, are on an impressive run and defeated Arsenal earlier this month. A victory for Villa would see them join Arsenal at the top of the Premier League table.

Arsenal's injury list has been mounting in recent weeks, creating a headache for manager Mikel Arteta. The defensive unit has been particularly affected. Ben White remains sidelined with a hamstring injury. Jurrien Timber missed the Brighton game due to a knock. Riccardo Calafiori was also a late withdrawal from the Brighton match after feeling discomfort during the warm-up.

In addition to the defensive concerns, Kai Havertz has been recovering from a knee injury. There is optimism that Havertz could be in contention to return against Aston Villa. Gabriel Magalhaes recently returned to action after a six-week absence.

Despite the mounting injury list, there could be some positive news for Arsenal. Jurrien Timber is expected to be fit for the Villa game. Ben White is also reportedly ahead of schedule in his recovery and might make the squad.

With Rice out, Arteta will have to reshuffle his team. Martin Odegaard, Martin Zubimendi and Eberechi Eze are likely options to start in central midfield. Arteta may have to alter his plans with Rice initially expected to fill in at right-back again. Odegaard lauded Rice's versatility after his performance at right-back against Brighton.

Arsenal are currently top of the Premier League but their lead is precariously balanced. Manchester City could potentially snatch first place with a victory over Sunderland on New Year's Day. With a challenging run of fixtures in January, including a match against Liverpool, Arsenal will need to navigate this injury crisis effectively to maintain their title challenge. Arteta has stated that the club is prepared to be "active" in the January transfer market to address the injury situation.