Southampton vs Arsenal, Premier League 2014/15: Where to watch, preview, betting odds and possible XI

Liverpool v Arsenal — Sakho thwarting Alexis Sanchez in the buildup. Getty Images

Arsenal travel to Southampton on New Year's Day as the Saints look to hold on to their number four spot and move from strength to strength in the upcoming year.

Where to Watch

Kick-off is set for 3pm GMT. Highlights of the game will be available on BBC Match of the Day on BBC One from 10:35pm GMT.

Overview

Southampton have hit upon a rich vein of form this season and currently find themselves above Arsenal in the league table, albeit on goal difference.

Ronald Koeman's team were seven points clear of the Gunners only a month back, but failed to build on the initiative as they lost to Arsenal at the Emirates owing to a winner from Alexis Sanchez in the 88th minute.

However, they have recovered from their drop in form and have reinstated their credentials as a top four team by drawing with Chelsea at home last Sunday.

A win against Arsenal, with whom they drew in the corresponding fixture last season, will be an ideal fixture for Koeman to prove his side's credentials and go three points clear of the Gunners.

Morgan Schneiderlin is suspended for the game after picking up a red card against Chelsea while Nathaniel Clyne is yet to recover from the injury he suffered earlier in the month.

Meanwhile, Arsenal come into the fixture having taken six points from the Christmas fixtures, only the second team after Stoke City to achieve the feat this season. A win here for Arsenal will take them above the Saints and help them level with Manchester United, who travel to Stoke earlier in the day.

The Gunners displayed immense mental strength to get the better of West Ham in what was a crucial fixture in their quest to regain their top four spot. Santi Cazorla scored from the spot and Danny Welbeck tapped in the second two minutes later to secure the victory.

Arsenal are likely to be without Welbeck for the fixture. He picked up a thigh strain in the game which will open the gates for Theo Walcott to make his much anticipated return to the first team.