Arsenal Match Preview
Immediately after the Qatar World Cup, West Ham United were welcomed back to Premier League action on Boxing Day by travelling to The Emirates Stadium to take on the challenge of Arsenal, where they surrendered a one-goal half-time advantage to lose 3-1. 367 days later, West Ham play the same opponents hoping to bring an end to their current unbeaten home form. Though, it must be said that tonight’s visitors lost their last London derby 5-0 at Fulham so they will have to do a lot better here, if they are to get the desired three points.
The Hammers are currently seventh in the table, due to Manchester United’s 3-2 comeback victory at home to Aston Villa on Tuesday and David Moyes’ men will be looking for another three points to move back up the table.
This will be the second meeting between the two sides this season and the East Londoners caused a shock in the fourth-round of the Carabao Cup as they beat Mikel Arteta’s men 3-1 back on November 1.
Just like his record at Anfield, Moyes is still yet to win at the home of the Gunners and whilst tonight’s hosts will be wanting revenge for last month’s defeat, the Irons’ boss will be doing all he can to get a first win on this ground.
Both teams played five days ago but Arsenal would have been disappointed with a 1-1 draw against Liverpool, given that they let a lead slip, whereas the Irons are looking to build on their 2-0 home win against Manchester United in the day’s early kick-off.
The Irons last experienced victory here nine seasons ago but having already won in North London this campaign, who would bet against them giving the Gunners a shot in the arm!!!
Nayef Aguerd missed the encounter against the Red Devils but will have to be assessed to see if he can replace Konstantinos Mavropanos in defence. Having said that, the Greek international will be keen to retain his place and start against his former club.
Danny Ings and Divin Mubama both entered the fray late on against Erik ten Hag’s men and are in contention if the Scotsman decides to make changes.
Declan Rice didn’t start the Carabao Cup tie last month but got a mixed reception from the home fans when he appeared from the bench. Who knows what sort of welcome he will get tonight, as he is likely to be in Arsenal’s starting line-up.
The match kicks off at 8:15pm and live coverage will be screened by Amazon Prime Video from 7pm. The referee is Michael Oliver.