Arsenal 2-2 Aston Villa – PLAYER RATINGS: Leandro Trossard starred for the hosts but who set the tone for the visitors? And who looked hungry?

Arsenal were held to a disappointing 2-2 draw by Aston Villa on Saturday afternoon, despite taking a two-goal lead.  The Gunners went in 1-0 up at the break after Gabriel Martinelli prodded past Emiliano Martinez from close range, with Kai Havertz netting after the break to give the hosts a two-goal cushion.

However, with Villa notably breaking Arsenal hearts at the Emirates last term, Youri Tielemans began the comeback with a header from inside the box to make it 2-1.

Ollie Watkins, who grew up supporting Arsenal, then drew the visitors level with an emphatic first-time finish to set up a tense final phase of the game.  Arsenal pressed Villa back and built up the phases outside the penalty area, but couldn’t quite pick the lock, Unai Emery once again frustrating his former side.

Here, Mail Sport’s ISAAN KHAN runs the rule over the star performers from Saturday’s clash, and those who perhaps could have contributed more for their sides.

ARSENAL (4-3-3):

DAVID RAYA: 6

Kept alert for the Aston Villa counter-attacks, spearheaded by Ollie Watkins.

Conceded twice.

THOMAS PARTEY: 5.5

Did well to break up play but gifted Watkins with a chance vs Raya early on — and then left the striker alone to convert Matty Cash’s cross.

JURRIEN TIMBER: 6

Slotted in at a centre back which is an unfamiliar position for the full back. It was a tall order.