[Getty Images]
[BBC]
Aston Villa were left feeling like they had missed a huge opportunity after their defeat to Arsenal at Villa Park.
Two of Villa’s most reliable players, England striker Ollie Watkins and Argentina’s World Cup-winning goalkeeper Emi Martinez, took charge as Arsenal won 2-0.
Watkins had a shot that needed to be beaten by Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya in the first half but it went wide and he was the victim of another incredible save from Raya in the second half, but should have scored with a diving header.
Martinez, described as “the best in the world” by almost everyone at Villa Park, fumbled a routine Thomas Partey shot from the edge of the area to give Arsenal a crucial second goal.
But the performance still gives Villa plenty of hope, particularly due to another fine performance from 22-year-old Morgan Rodgers.
Rodgers was the team’s best player, and although his combination of running ability and dribbling skill often left him too much for Arsenal to handle, his genuine quality on the ball allowed him to rise to challenges, win physical battles and create chances.
He was a threat throughout the game and while the result may have been disappointing for Villa, everything Rodgers has done suggests they have got a promising player on their hands.