Stage set: Vitality Stadium
Arsenal make the trip to Bournemouth this afternoon looking to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League table. The Gunners were handed a huge boost to their title chances on New Year’s Day as second-placed Manchester City were held to a 0-0 draw by Sunderland at the Stadium of Light.
The result meant that Pep Guardiola’s side missed the chance to leapfrog the north Londoners at the summit, and they were also overtaken by Aston Villa earlier on Saturday, with the Villans earning a 3-1 win against Nottingham Forest. A win at the Vitality Stadium could leave Arsenal six points clear at the top, although City would have a game in hand on them.
As for team news, Declan Rice was spotted with the squad ahead of today’s game despite being an injury doubt, so all eyes are on the midfield to see whether he starts. Viktor Gyokeres would desperately like a goal in the hope of sparking a scoring streak, while Gabriel made a goalscoring return to the side against Villa. This should be a thrilling game, and you can keep up with all the latest with our live blog below.
How to watch
TV channel: In the UK, the game will be televised live on Sky Sports. Coverage starts at 5pm GMT on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Premier League ahead of kick-off at 5.30pm.
Live stream: Sky Sports subscribers can also catch the contest live online via the Sky Go app.
Free highlights: The Sky Sports app and YouTube channel will show highlights shortly after the final whistle with Match of the Day broadcasting on BBC One at 10.30pm GMT.
Hello and welcome!
... to Standard Sport’s LIVE coverage of Arsenal’s Premier League trip to Bournemouth.
The Gunners are out to extend their lead at the top of the tree after Manchester City faltered on New Year’s Day.
Stay tuned for all the updates, with kick off at 5.30pm GMT.
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