Arsenal would move back to the top of the Premier League table for a few hours at least if they can beat struggling West Ham United at Upton Park on Boxing Day.

The Gunners were usurped at the summit for Christmas by Liverpool, failing to take top spot back during Monday's goalless draw with Chelsea at the Emirates.

However, with the Merseysiders not kicking off against Manchester City until later in the day, a win would see Arsenal move back into first, while a draw could also be enough depending on results elsewhere.

Arsene Wenger's men have suffered a difficult December, however, winning just one of their five matches in all competitions so far this month and dropping seven points in the title race.

Their away form this season has been impressive, though, with only North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur picking up more points on their travels in the league.

The Gunners have not lost on Boxing Day since 1999 and they could be boosted by the return of Laurent Koscielny, who missed Monday's draw against Chelsea with a gashed leg.

Jack Wilshere, meanwhile, completes his two-game ban for an offensive gesture at the end of his side's mauling by Manchester City a couple of weeks ago.

West Ham, meanwhile, need to start picking up positive results in the Premier League as they currently sit just a point and a place above the relegation zone.

Sam Allardyce's men booked their spot in the Capital One Cup semi-finals last week, but they have won just one of their last 10 league outings and two of the last 16.

The Hammers have also won just one of their last seven league games at Upton Park, losing four and drawing the remaining two in that time.

However, they will be boosted by the return of captain Kevin Nolan from suspension, while James Tomkins is available despite being arrested on Sunday.

Andy Carroll, Stewart Downing, Mladen Petric, Ricardo Vaz Te and Winston Reid remain sidelined, while Adrian could retain his place in the side ahead of Jussi Jaaskelainen.

Recent form

West Ham: WLLDWL

Arsenal: WWDLLD

Possible starting lineups

West Ham: Adrian; Demel, Collins, Tomkins, McCartney; Noble; Taylor, Nolan, Diame, Jarvis; Maiga

Arsenal: Szczesny; Sagna, Mertesacker, Koscielny, Gibbs; Arteta, Ramsey; Walcott, Cazorla, Ozil; Giroud

Sports Mole says: 0-2