Who is the referee for Arsenal v Aston Villa? Match officials and VAR confirmed for Emery return

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Arsenal take on Aston Villa in a huge game in the context of their Premier League title race as the Gunners look to build momentum.

Arsenal head into the game full of confidence after victory in the North London Derby but come up against an Aston Villa side managed by Unai Emery.

Unai Emery is unbeaten at the Emirates Stadium since leaving Arsenal and will be hoping to extend that record as Villa have league ambitions of their own – Champions League places are up for grabs.

Always a huge factor in any Premier League game is the referee, so with that said, here is a look at the officials for Arsenal v Aston Villa.

READ MORE: Arsenal fans spot one key player absent from training – he could miss Aston Villa clash

Who is the referee and VAR official for Arsenal v Aston Villa?

The Premier League have confirmed that Chris Kavanagh is the referee for Arsenal’s clash with Aston Villa. John Brooks will be the VAR official.

Manchester-born Kavanagh has refereed 22 times this season, including games in the Premier League, UEFA Europa League and the Carabao Cup.

Chris Kavanagh’s Arsenal record

In his career so far, Chris Kavanagh has taken charge of Arsenal on 21 occasions with a mixed set of results for the Gunners.

Kavanagh was criticised for sending off Declan Rice earlier in the season as Arsenal were held 1-1 at the Emirates Stadium by Brighton.

Chris Kavanagh’s Aston Villa record

As for Aston Villa, Chris Kavanagh has officiated Emery’s side 15 times across both in the Premier League and their time in the Championship.

VAR and assistant officials

Joining Kavanagh in the middle will be Lee Betts and Neil Davies, who will both be linesman for the clash. John Busby will be the fourth official in charge with the task of keeping both managers in check.

VAR will be in use for the game with John Brooks in charge should the technology be required at any point in the match.