MIKEL ARTETA told his Arsenal stars to use their “cruel” defeat by Aston Villa this month as fuel for tomorrow’s title showdown.
The Gunners were beaten 2-1 at Villa Park on December 6 — after Emi Buendia scored with virtually the last kick of the game.
On Tuesday the two sides meet again at the Emirates and a win for Unai Emery’s men will move them level on points with Prem leaders Arsenal.
But Arteta believes his side can get revenge by using the pain from that loss.
The Gunners boss said: “If you use the motivation and anger in the right manner, for sure.
“I have a few ideas and things that we have to do better. It was quite cruel as well, the way we lost it, but we’ll learn from it.”
Arsenal are unbeaten in their last five games since losing to Villa and a win tomorrow would open up a six-point gap to them in third.
Victory would also move Arteta’s side five points clear of Manchester City, who are second and travel to Sunderland on New Year’s Day.
The Gunners have also not lost at the Emirates all season — with Bournemouth the last team to win there back in May.
Arteta said: “Well, it’s what we want, that every opponent who comes here suffers. We have a really tough match.
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“We know their level, what they are doing, but it’s a beautiful game to play.”
Victory over Chelsea on Saturday made it 11 wins on the spin for Villa — equalling a club record.
Former Arsenal manager Emery has played down his side being in the title race. But Arteta added: “They merit being there, look how consistent they have been.
“They deserve credit because they are doing it on the pitch.”
