If Arsenal win tonight in an exciting home London derby, they will head to London in 2024 as Premier League leaders. The Gunners stayed top at Christmas thanks to a thrilling last-gasp draw at Anfield, but they returned to second place after Liverpool’s heavy success at Burnley on Boxing Day.
With a 2-0 win, the Reds moved two points ahead of Arsenal, who need to win tonight’s late game to return to the top in the New Year and challenge for a first title in two decades.
Mikel Arteta will be desperate to avoid another debacle after leading the way over the festive period last season, although his team could face a tough test against a West Ham team looking to climb above Manchester United and into the top six after Saturday’s rousing win over the Red Devils.
The Hammers have a horrendous record on the pitch and are without Kurt Zouma and Nayef Aguerd in defence, with Arteta playing with Leandro Trossard instead of the suspended Kai Havertz. Follow Arsenal v West Ham live below with expert analysis from Simon Collings and Malik Ouzia from the Emirates Stadium.
GOAL! Arsenal 0-1 West Ham (Soucek 12′)
Against the run of play, West Ham take the lead!
There doesn’t seem to be too much danger as Emerson trundles down the left, but he whips in a terrific cross that just evades Bowen and causes chaos in the Arsenal defence. Bowen keeps the ball in play – although that will be checked by VAR – and Soucek sweeps home from close range!