Chris Sutton Wants Aston Villa to Batter Arsenal Because of 'Abusive' Thing Their Fans Did

Football pundit Chris Sutton has called for Aston Villa to deliver a thrashing to Arsenal in their upcoming Premier League clash, fueled by what he describes as an "abusive" act by Gunners fans. Speaking on BBC Sport, Sutton expressed his admiration for Villa's remarkable form while highlighting a personal grievance that has intensified his desire for an upset.

Aston Villa sit atop the Premier League table over Christmas, boasting an impressive 11-game winning streak. Sutton praises their resilience, noting they have accumulated the most points (18) from losing positions this season. "I love what Aston Villa are doing," he said. "You just keep thinking their winning run can't continue... and again I was wrong." He referenced their recent gritty comeback against Chelsea, where Ollie Watkins—an Arsenal supporter who rejected a bid from the Gunners last year—subbed on to spark a turnaround, securing yet another victory.

Despite this, Sutton predicts a narrow 2-1 Arsenal win, anticipating a hard-fought "battle" with "nervy moments" for Mikel Arteta's side. However, his commentary carries an edge: Sutton wants Villa to "batter" Arsenal in retaliation for abusive behavior from their fans, though specifics remain tied to ongoing fan rivalries. Watkins, script-perfect as the hero against his boyhood club, could again prove decisive.

Sutton foresees Arsenal "finding another gear," but Villa's refusal to "lie down" promises fireworks. This matchup tests the leaders' mettle amid Villa's surge. Fans can read Sutton's full predictions and share views on BBC Sport.

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