London, Dec 5 (NationPress) In a highly anticipated matchup, Aston Villa, currently in third place, is set to challenge the Premier League leaders, Arsenal, in the weekend's feature match, kicking off the Saturday lunchtime schedule. Aston Villa recently clinched a dramatic 4-3 victory against Brighton, propelling them into third place in the standings, with Ollie Watkins rediscovering his scoring touch.

This marks the fourth consecutive win for Unai Emery's team, which has only faced one league defeat since August, now sitting just a point behind Manchester City after overtaking Chelsea.

Arsenal, fresh off a solid 2-0 home victory against Brentford, is currently grappling with fitness concerns surrounding key midfielder Declan Rice and central defender Cristhian Mosquera, both of whom were substituted during Wednesday's match.

On Saturday, Manchester City will also be in action, facing a challenging test against Sunderland. City's recent performances have been unpredictable, highlighted by a thrilling 5-4 triumph over Fulham, where their attacking prowess was on display, but defensive vulnerabilities were evident as well.

Sunderland's recent performances, including a strong showing at Anfield and a victory at Stamford Bridge, indicate they will not be an easy opponent.

Chelsea will head to the south coast to meet Bournemouth, who has struggled after initially starting the season strong. Bournemouth hasn't celebrated a victory since October 26, making their clash with a reeling Chelsea team—still missing suspended Moises Caicedo after his red card against Arsenal—all the more vital.

Leeds United's recent win may have secured Daniel Farke's position as coach, as they prepare for a Saturday evening match against Liverpool. Liverpool's recovery, following a win against West Ham, was stalled by another lackluster performance against Sunderland.

In Newcastle, summer signing Yoane Wissa may debut against Burnley, who are mired in a five-match losing streak. Thomas Frank faces his former club as Tottenham hosts Brentford, aiming to contain Brentford's prolific forward, Igor Thiago.

Sean Dyche will lead his improving Nottingham Forest against Everton, who replaced him with current coach David Moyes in January. Despite the past, Dyche has demonstrated his coaching prowess in Nottingham.

In a south London derby on Sunday, Fulham will take on Crystal Palace, with winger Samuel Chukwueze vying for a starting spot following impressive performances.

West Ham will face Brighton after a late equalizer against Manchester United, intensifying pressure on Ruben Amorim as his team heads to play bottom-placed and winless Wolverhampton Wanderers on Monday. This match will also see striker Matheus Cunha face his former club, which has sorely missed his contributions this season.