Martin Odegaard believes Declan Rice's "unbelievable" performance as an emergency right-back demonstrates that Arsenal are "ready to do whatever it takes" to win the Premier League.

Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard singled out Declan Rice for special praise after a stunning individual display in an unfamiliar right back position against Brighton & Hove Albion which kept the club’s Premier League title aspirations firmly aflame.

Martin Odegaard's first goal of the season helped a fortuitous Arsenal side secure a nervy 2-1 win over Brighton to stay top of the Premier League table. The Gunners captain lashed in a superb effort early on before a Georginio Rutter own goal looked to set them on their way.

Arsenal have Gabriel back from injury when they resume their Premier League title bid against Brighton. Gabriel has been out since early November with an adductor injury but he was spotted with the Arsenal squad on their pre-match walk on Saturday morning, raising hope he is about to return.

The Gunners guaranteed top spot at Christmas with their hard-fought victory over Everton and currently hold a two-point lead over their nearest challengers Manchester City. With Pep Guardiola’s men in exceptional form and Aston Villa firmly in the title picture, complacency can’t be accepted against Brighton.

Arsenal moved back to the top of the Premier League table with a nervy 2-1 win against Brighton at the Emirates. Mikel Arteta's side started their penultimate match of the year a

Aston Villa will be without two regular starters for their high-profile Premier League clash with Arsenal due to suspension. Unai Emery’s in-form side head to the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday evening for a blockbuster meeting that takes place just over three weeks after they sealed a last-gasp 2-1 triumph over the leaders at Villa Park thanks to Emi Buendia’s dramatic winner after Matty Cash’s opening goal had been cancelled out by Leandro Trossard.