Arsenal and West Ham meet for the second time in seven days, having played out a 0-0 draw at the London Stadium last week, as the two sides go head to head tonight in the quarter-finals of the League Cup.
Arsenal, as expected in the previous fixture, dominated possession but were unable to break down a stubborn West Ham team that restricted Arsenal to a mere three shots on target.
David Moyes will want a similarly committed display against an Arsenal side that Arsene Wenger will be sure to rotate ahead of a tough fixture against Liverpool at the Emirates on Friday.
Moyes will also be forced to rotate due to defensive injuries; Jose Fonte, Sam Byram and Cheikhou Kouyate remain sidelined while Manuel Lanzini will miss the game after being charged by the FA retrospectively for his dive against Stoke in West Ham’s 3-0 victory at the weekend.
What time does it start?
Arsenal vs West Ham kicks off at 19:45 on Tuesday 19 December.
Where can I watch it?
The game will not be shown live in the UK, however highlights of the Caribao Cup quarter-finals will be shown on Channel 5 on Wednesday 20 December at 22:55.
It’s a big game for…
Alex Iwobi. With Arsenal switching formation to a back three for the majority of the season, the young Nigerian forward has found himself in and out of Wenger’s first team despite star players such as Alexis Sanchez struggling for form. Iwobi will need to make more of his first team opportunities to stake a claim for a spot in Arsenal’s front line, having scored one and assisted another in 15 appearances for the Gunners this season. Tonight could be a chance to do that against Arsenal’s London rivals.
Iwobi needs to more of his first-team opportunities (AFP/Getty Images)
Best stat…
Arsenal have a poor record in the League cup against Premier League opposition, having lost their last four home games against teams from the top flight.
Player to watch…
Declan Rice. Ireland U21 international Rice has made eight appearances for the Hammers this season and is slowly establishing himself in Moyes’ first team. Committed in defence and composed on the ball when utilised in midfield, Rice looks like a top prospect more than capable of making it at the highest level. With numerous defensive casualties going into the New Year for the Irons, Rice’s versatility will ensure he gets game time over the festive period.
Rice in training for West Ham (Getty)
Previous three meetings…
West Ham United 0 Arsenal 0, Premier League, 13 December 2017
Arsenal 3 West Ham 0, Premier League, 5 April 2017
West Ham 1 Arsenal 5, Premier League, 3 December 2016
Form guide…
Arsenal: WLDDW
West Ham: LLWDW
Odds…
Arsenal: 8/15
West Ham: 19/4
Draw: 16/5
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- Arsenal
- West Ham United
- Premier League
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