Arteta keen to prevent another Rice sending off like the one versus Brighton

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta wants to make sure there is no recurrence of Declan Rices contentious dismissal against Brighton as his table topping side takes on Brighton at the Emirates on Saturday.

The Gunners hold a slender two point lead over Manchester City in second place and if Pep Guardiolas team beats Nottingham Forest at the City Ground beforehand they could go one point clear before Arsenals clash with the Seagulls.

In the previous campaign Rice got his marching orders via a second booking for time wasting on a set piece.

Arsenal had been ahead 1-0 prior to Rices disputed sending off yet they surrendered two points in a 1-1 stalemate.

"I recall it clearly" Arteta commented looking back on the game. "I felt extremely frustrated by how we managed with only ten players so I hope things turn out much better this time.

“The regulations have changed I believe. We suffered greatly because of that one. Fingers crossed it does not happen again and we keep all eleven on the pitch.”

Rices ejection was among six red cards handed to Arsenal players in the Premier League over last season though none have occurred for them this campaign so far.

Kai Havertz might be available for Arsenal this weekend with the 26 year old absent since their opening fixture of the term after undergoing an operation on his right knee.

Havertz resumed training recently and Arteta noted he nearly made the bench for their League Cup win on penalties against Crystal Palace on Tuesday.

"He came very close and it is just a few days away now" Arteta added.

"We will check his reaction to the upcoming phase but he is someone we have really missed and he adds a fresh element to our lineup. I would be delighted to welcome him back shortly."

Gabriel Martinelli faces a final check on his fitness after picking up a knee knock in the Palace match.