After what feels like a lifetime, Arsenal are back in less than a weeks’ time as the Gunners prepare for the return or the Premier League with a visit from West Ham United on Boxing Day.

Boxing day is a renowned day for football, more so this year than ever with the World Cup putting domestic competition on hold for those in the top division.

Arsenal will look to resume their fantastic form on the 26th as West Ham United come to the Emirates in the hope to kick start their lacklustre season so far.

It won’t be easy for the Hammers, who sit in 16th, as not only do the hosts sit five points clear at the top, but also have an encouraging run of form when it comes to Boxing Day fixtures.

The Gunners have lost just once on Boxing Day since 2013, winning four of seven matchups and securing two draws.

The loss was a memorable one in 2015 when Southampton blew apart Arsenal at St Mary’s, winning 4-0 on an evening to forget on the south coast.

The last few years have proved to be strong for Arsenal, last year a trip to Norwich ended in a 5-0 victory with Bukayo Saka starring.

The year before in the 2020/21 season was memorable with a derby win against Chelsea at the Emirates, Saka starred once more in what was a less magical occasion than derby’s since, as no fans were present under the floodlights as COVID-19 was still prominent.

A win for the Gunners could take them a massive eight points clear of the league, as they wait for second place Manchester City to kickstart their campaign on the 28th with a trip to Elland Road.

There are plenty of possible scenarios, as there always are in the spectacle that is Boxing Day football in the Premier League, however in the eyes of the Gunners, three points is the only acceptable outcome with a chance to resume their status as title challengers.