Gunners to resume Premier League title tilt
After what feels like months to many Premier League fans, the competition finally gets back underway on Boxing Day. Arsenal currently lead Manchester City by five points at the summit of the division, and welcome fellow London side West Ham United to the Emirates. Mikel Arteta has his fair share of absences to contend with, but that is also the case for the visitors. Read our preview here:
Ready, steady Eddie
The biggest name unavailable for the hosts is undoubtedly Gabriel Jesus. The Brazilian forward needs knee surgery, and will be out of action until at least February. Naturally, that has led to plenty of speculation as to who'll replace him and whether someone should be brought in during the winter transfer window when it opens shortly. Arteta appears set in the very short term at least to turn to Eddie Nketiah. The 23 year old hasn't started a game in the league this season, but has proven previously to have what it takes in short bursts to live with the pressure of getting the goals. The Gunners are well stocked in that department, and could just as easily move Gabriel Martinelli to a more central role should they need to switch things up.
Paq it in
Meanwhile, David Moyes will be hoping the extended break because of the World Cup will do his charges good, as the Iron currently lie just above the relegation zone. Kurt Zouma and Maxwel Cornet won't feature, nor will any of the French and Moroccan internationals. A further trio (including Michail Antonio) are also set to be missing from the teamsheet. Many of the XI that will start need to up their game at club level, which includes Lucas Paquetá. The Brazilian midfielder had a deeper role in Qatar, but needs to show his creativity more behind Jarrod Bowen in claret and blue - he only has one goal and three assists to his name, illustrating the struggles the team have suffered overall.
Betting tip
bet365 have odds of 2.50 for Arsenal to grab yet another win and also keep a clean sheet.
