Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has stressed the importance of discipline as his side prepare to face Brighton at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday, hoping to avoid a repeat of the controversy that marred the same fixture last season.

The Gunners currently sit top of the Premier League, holding a slender two-point lead over Manchester City. Pep Guardiola’s side could briefly move one point clear if they defeat Nottingham Forest earlier in the day, adding further pressure ahead of Arsenal’s clash with the Seagulls.

Last season’s meeting between the sides proved costly for Arsenal. Declan Rice was shown a second yellow card for delaying a restart, a decision that sparked widespread debate. At the time, Arsenal were leading 1–0, but the dismissal shifted the momentum and they were forced to settle for a 1–1 draw.

Arteta admits the incident is still fresh in his mind and is determined his players respond differently this time around.

“I remember it very well,” Arteta said. “I was very frustrated with how we played with 10 men, so hopefully it will be very different next time.

“I think the rules are different now. We paid a big price because of that situation. Hopefully that stays away, and we continue to play with 11 players.”

Rice’s sending-off was one of six red cards Arsenal received in the Premier League last season, but the north London side have maintained a clean disciplinary record so far this campaign.

Arteta also provided a positive update on Kai Havertz, who could make his return this weekend. The 26-year-old has not featured since Arsenal’s opening league match of the season after undergoing surgery on his right knee.

Havertz returned to training last week and was close to being included in the squad for Arsenal’s League Cup penalty shootout victory over Crystal Palace on Tuesday.

“He was quite close, and it’s a matter of days,” Arteta explained. “Let’s see how he responds to the next step, but he’s a player we’ve missed a lot. He gives us another dimension, and I’ll be very happy to have him back soon.”

There is, however, a concern over Gabriel Martinelli, who will face a late fitness test after picking up a knee injury against Crystal Palace.