Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has some awful news for West Ham ahead of the Boxing Day clash between two sides at opposite ends of the table.
West Ham’s progress under David Moyes over the last couple of seasons has seen them close the gap on Arsenal.
But this season is a different kettle of fish altogether.
Arsenal are flying high and leading the way at the top of the table while West Ham are languishing just one point off the bottom three.
The freescoring Gunners have bagged 33 goals as they launch a shock title bid. West Ham have managed just 12 – the joint second lowest in the top flight.
Moyes is a man under pressure with rumours circulating that West Ham must take six points from their next four games to save him from the axe.
The Hammers and Arsenal have both been hit with injuries to key players ahead of the resumption of the Premier League.
Gabriel Jesus is out for around three months after requiring surgery following an injury on World Cup duty with Brazil.
Kurt Zouma is out until mid-January for West Ham after having an operation to flush his knee.
And yesterday Moyes was hit with a quadruple injury blow as West Ham took on Fulham in a friendly.
Now Arsenal boss Arteta has some awful news for West Ham ahead of the Boxing Day clash.
The Gunners manager has revealed that both Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka will not only be back to face West Ham after their World Cup exploits but are absolutely desperate to face the Hammers.
“They’ll come back straight away into the rhythm, shape and mould of the team,” Arteta says in an ominous warning to West Ham (Goal.com).
“We’re waiting for them and they are desperate to be back as well.
“I’ve spoken to both of them. Gabi was here today, with a big smile and big energy. He’s ready to go again. It’s going to be a big boost for the team.”
A big boost for Arsenal of course and a huge worry for West Ham.
The Hammers are woeful in both full-back areas this season and will be facing two of the best wide-men in the league – who are clearly champing at the bit too.
The trip to the Emirates is looking incredibly daunting indeed.
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