The semi-winter break in the Premier League means that, once again, there are just five games played in the competition this weekend, featuring the ten teams who rested last weekend.
Crystal Palace did not rest though. They played and lost a midweek FA Cup replay against Everton to increase the pressure on coach Roy Hodgson, whose side have just one win from 11 in all competitions ahead of a difficult visit to Arsenal.
Consecutive defeats have seen Arsenal drop to fourth in the league, five points behind leaders Liverpool, but they could have Gabriel Jesus back after injury to ease some of the attacking burden on Bukayo Saka.
Saka was looking tired a fortnight ago and Arsenal will hope he has restored some bounce to his legs for this must-win game.
Liverpool have an interesting visit to face Andoni Iraola’s Bournemouth on Sunday.
Liverpool narrowly won a Carabao Cup tie away to Bournemouth in early November, but that performance signaled the start of Bournemouth’s recovery after taking time to get used to Iraola’s aggressive high-press. They have won seven games in all competitions since then to climb into mid-table. They should be well-rested after not playing since January 6.
Former Liverpool striker Dominic Solanke has scored eight goals in his last eight games and will be a big threat to the leaders.
Brentford fans will welcome back striker Ivan Toney for their vital home game against Nottingham Forest on Saturday. The England forward returns after an eight-month ban for gambling offences. His power and goals will be vital in helping his side end a run of six defeats in seven games that have dropped them to the verge of the relegation zone.
Toney’s return is especially important as coach Thomas Frank is without Yoane Wissa — who is at the Africa Cup of Nations — and the injured Bryan Mbeumo.
West Ham suffered a surprise FA Cup exit away to Bristol City during the week and need to improve for their visit to struggling Sheffield United. Jarrod Bowen should be back after injury, but Lucas Paqueta faces two months out with a calf injury. Mohammed Kudus and Nayef Aguerd are at the Africa Cup of Nations and Said Benrahma is suspended, limiting coach David Moyes’ options.
