Arsenal, led by Mikel Arteta, aimed to break an 11-year winless streak at Liverpool's Anfield. They took an early lead with a fourth-minute goal from Gabriel Magalhaes but were later equalized by a powerful Mohamed Salah finish. Despite contentious moments, including a debated handball and a five-on-one counter-attack, Arsenal left Anfield with a point, maintaining their top position.
However, their Christmas celebrations were tempered as they haven't won the league after being at the summit on December 25. While Villa missed their chance to top the table on Boxing Day, Liverpool seized the opportunity, pushing Arsenal to second place.
Arsenal's recent form, with just one win in their last four games, may seem underwhelming, but their home performance at the Emirates Stadium remains strong, with a recent 2-0 victory over Brighton marking their fifth consecutive Premier League win.
On the other hand, West Ham, after a less-than-exciting first half against Manchester United, secured a 2-0 win, finishing 2023 in sixth place. However, a defeat in a London derby against Fulham and a demotion to seventh place due to Man United's victory over Villa marred their recent run.
Despite Arsenal's win over West Ham on Boxing Day 2022, West Ham had previously defeated Arsenal 3-1 in the EFL Cup fourth-round tie in November. The upcoming clash between the two London rivals promises an intriguing contest, with West Ham eager to repeat their earlier success and Arsenal aiming for a different outcome.
INJURIES & SUSPENSION
Although Liverpool didn't escape unscathed physically after their encounter with Arsenal, Arteta's team faces no new injury issues heading into Thursday's game. However, there is a disciplinary challenge for the Gunners boss to address in the upcoming derby.
Kai Havertz, showing improvement, won't be able to play against West Ham due to suspension after receiving his fifth booking of the season. His absence is expected to lead to Jorginho joining the midfield trio with Martin Odegaard and former West Ham player Declan Rice.
For the hosts, Jurrien Timber (knee), Fabio Vieira (groin), Thomas Partey (thigh), and Takehiro Tomiyasu (calf) remain sidelined. However, there's optimism that the latter two could make a comeback for Arsenal's FA Cup third-round match against Liverpool on January 7.
Turning to West Ham, the team battled winter bugs before their victorious match against Man United. Nayef Aguerd and Maxwel Cornet were unavailable for that clash due to illness, but Aguerd was on the road to recovery last week. While Cornet may not find a spot in the starting lineup, Aguerd is expected to replace former Arsenal defender Dinos Mavropanos, who should be on the bench alongside another former Gunner, Lukasz Fabianski.
The sole injury concern for the visitors is Michail Antonio, dealing with a persistent knee issue. Although he has resumed running outdoors, he is unlikely to be considered for first-team selection for another couple of weeks.
POSSIBLE LINE-UPS
Arsenal possible starting lineup:Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Zinchenko; Odegaard, Jorginho, Rice; Saka, Jesus, Martinelli
West Ham United possible starting lineup:
Areola; Coufal, Zouma, Aguerd, Emerson; Soucek, Alvarez; Kudus, Ward-Prowse, Paqueta; Bowen
EXPERT PREDICTION
Arsenal 3-1 West Ham
Even though a determined West Ham squad will pose challenges for Arteta's side, it's worth noting that the Hammers haven't managed to secure a clean sheet on the road in the top flight since April. These defensive vulnerabilities could potentially be a significant disadvantage for them in North London.
