Aston Villa 2 Arsenal 1: Player ratings

Somehow you knew he was always going to recover in time to face his former club. A big save to deny Odegaard in the second half.

Saves: 7

MATTY CASH

Another big goal to add to his growing collection. Even more important was another excellent performance in defence.

Goal: 8

EZRI KONSA

Brought the usual sense of calm to the Villa defence. Ended the game with yet another central defensive partner.

Class: 8

PAU TORRES

A key contribution with the cross for the goal. Strong in defence, as he has been for several months. Late injury a concern.

Composed: 7

IAN MAATSEN

A significant week in his Villa career after starting back-to-back Premier League matches. Should keep his place after a strong performance against a tough opponent in Saka.

Strong: 7

AMADOU ONANA

Lost the ball in the build-up to Arsenal’s equaliser. Otherwise a solid performance in the heart of the midfield.

Solid: 6

BOUBACAR KAMARA

So busy there seemed to be several of him on the pitch at one stage in the second half. Involved in both boxes and a big role in the winner.

Everywhere: 8

JOHN MCGINN

A battling performance from the skipper, as you would expect. Used the ball well in the first half and kept Villa ticking along.

Captain: 7

YOURI TIELEMANS

Played in a more advanced position behind Watkins and impressed. Always good on the ball and involved in the scramble at the end.

Conductor: 8

MORGAN ROGERS

Showed some lovely touches and a fine range of passing, one lofted ball to Watkins in the first half standing out. A nuisance to Arsenal throughout.

Relentless: 8

OLLIE WATKINS

One of those days when it just didn’t quite come off. Denied twice by David Raya but his workrate still had a big impact on Villa’s performance.

Denied: 6

SUBSTITUTES

Donyell Malen 7 (for Watkins, 66), Jadon Sancho 7 (for McGinn, 75), Lamare Bogarde 7 (for Onana, 75), Victor Lindelof (for Torres, 86), Emi Buendia (for Cash, 87) Subs not used: Digne, Garcia, Hemmings, Bizot (gk).