Daijiworld Media Network – London
London, Dec 26: Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has said he is keen to ensure there is no repeat of Declan Rice’s controversial red card from last season when the Premier League leaders host Brighton & Hove Albion at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday.
The Gunners head into the fixture two points clear of second-placed Manchester City. However, Pep Guardiola’s side could move one point ahead at the top of the table if they defeat Nottingham Forest earlier on Saturday.
Last season’s meeting against Brighton remains fresh in Arteta’s memory after Rice was sent off for a second yellow card for delaying a restart. Arsenal were leading 1-0 at the time but were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw.
“I remember it very well,” Arteta said while reflecting on the incident. “I was very pissed off in the manner that we played with 10 men, so hopefully it is going to be very different next time.
“I think the rules are different now. We paid a big price for that rule, and hopefully that stays away and we continue to play with 11 players,” he added.
Rice’s dismissal was one of six red cards Arsenal received in the Premier League last season, but the north London club are yet to have a player sent off in the league this term.
Arteta also provided an update on Kai Havertz, who could return to action after undergoing surgery on his right knee. The 26-year-old has not featured since Arsenal’s opening match of the season but returned to training last week.
“He was quite close and it will be a matter of days,” Arteta said. “He is a player that we have missed a lot and brings another dimension to the team. I will be very happy to have him back soon.”
Meanwhile, Gabriel Martinelli will face a late fitness test after picking up a knee injury during Arsenal’s League Cup penalty shootout victory over Crystal Palace on Tuesday.
