DC: Per Mertesacker
Despite some patchy form this season, Per Mertesacker has probably earned his place in the starting lineup for this crucial game, and should lead the side out with the captain’s armband.
DC: Laurent Koscielny
A scorer for Arsenal in last season’s win over Hull City, Laurent Koscielny remains a hugely important part of the Arsenal defence and is sure to start against Villa this weekend.
MC: Francis Coquelin
A defensive midfielder who has made this spot his own this season, Francis Coquelin has been a big revelation for Arsenal and is surely going to start this big game.
MC: Santi Cazorla
One of Arsenal’s best players this season, Santi Cazorla also scored in the final win over Hull last season, as well as another Wembley goal in the Community Shield at the start of this campaign.
