Boxing Day Premier League as it happened

1. Giroud sent off for headbutt on Onuoha
2. Rob Green saves Alexis Sanchez penalty
3. Wins for Chelsea, Man City and Man Utd
4. Saints, Swansea and Liverpool also win
5. As do Spurs, Stoke and Hull
6. BBC Radio 5 live's 606 via audio speaker button until 21:00 GMT

Right then, I don't know about you but I'm absolutely stuffed from today's feast of football, so it is time to bring an end to this live commentary. If you do find you have space for some extra treats though, head over to the BBC Sport football index for all the reaction to today's games.

Manager reaction

More from Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, speaking to Match of the Day: "It was a mistake from Giroud, simple as that. He stands up for it and admits he has done wrong. Rarely does he make the same error twice.

"Tomas Rosicky, I want to praise him for his quality and his attitude as I haven't given him many games of late. Alexis Sanchez has shown his ability to create chances and his commitment to the side, which has made such a difference for us this season."

Player reaction

More from Arsenal midfielder Tomas Rosicky, speaking to Match of the Day: "It was my first start of the season and I wanted to show the boss he can use me more. For every player it's difficult when you don't play for a while and then suddenly you get called up, but you have to be prepared to be called in to action at short notice, so I work incredibly hard in training. This is a special time of year for supporters, when the whole world is watching the Premier League. It's tough for us as players, but you have to embrace it."

BBC

As Arsene Wenger says, Arsenal have some ground to make up on the top three, with third-place Manchester United five points ahead and leaders Chelsea 15 points ahead. Today's win was all the more important, though, considering the Gunners head to fifth-place West Ham on Sunday.

Manager reaction

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, speaking to BT Sport about their prospects in the title race: "We find ourselves detached from the teams above us at the moment, with a bit of ground to make up, so we can't get too carried away with trying to make up that ground at the moment, just to concentrate on what we're doing."

Manager reaction

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QPR manager Harry Redknapp, speaking to BT Sport: "Once they went down to 10 men, at 1-0 you've got to make sure you keep it tight. The one thing we didn't want to do is conceded another goal. To let the second goal in when we did was criminal. The opening goal was a poor goal as well, we fell asleep and let the fella come round the back and the penalty, we got away with as well. There was no need to go to ground then.

"They dominated possession, they were excellent at times, but once they got down to 10 men there was a great opportunity for us. We got into some great positions, but the final ball was not good enough. We played a different system, it's difficult, at the end of the day you can keep chopping and changing but it's about people making the right decision.

"I feel our passing was sloppy, we gave the ball away too often and when you give the ball away you invite attack after attack."

Manager reaction

PA

More from Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, speaking to BT Sport about the performance of Alexis Sanchez: "He is a guy full of confidence and playing with some real style.

"He worked tirelessly today in setting up one goal and scoring the other, so we can't be too harsh on him for missing a penalty."

Manager reaction

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, speaking to BT Sport: "From the moment of the sending off, we knew we were in a battle.

"It was was a deserved red card, Olivier didn't control himself. It completely changed the dynamic of the game, we were completely in control at that stage and it was quite comfortable.

"Olivier is a guy who, when he makes mistakes, he stands up and admits it."

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Arsene Wenger gave Olivier Giroud an icy stare when the striker got sent off, but if he was still angry after the game he did pretty well to keep it hidden in his post-match interview. His full reaction coming up.

Player reaction

Arsenal midfielder Tomas Rosicky, speaking to BT Sport: "It was my first start of the season and I wanted to show the manager he could use me more. We dug deep and we won the game and it's a very important stage of the season, so we're pleased to have won."

Match of the Day

Right then, here is your Boxing Day Match of the Day running order: West Brom v Man City; Chelsea v West Ham, Man Utd v Newcastle, Arsenal v QPR, Sunderland v Hull, Leicester v Tottenham, Crystal Palace v Southampton, Burnley v Liverpool, Everton v Stoke, Swansea v Aston Villa.

Watch on BBC One at 23:00 GMT.

Player reaction

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Arsenal midfielder Mathieu Flamini, speaking to BT Sport: "There was some great character today. We had to scrap it out a bit towards the end, so it's very pleasing to have come through a bit of a challenge there to get all three points."

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey on Twitter: A good way to end my birthday watching the lads get three points. Well done! Thanks for all the tweets and wishes today

The entertainers

Not a single goalless game in all 46 played in the top four English tiers today. Impressive.

Graham Taylor

BBC Radio 5 live at Emirates Stadium

"Going down to 10 men is not an easy thing, but in this respect, Arsenal did well. But, QPR were brought right back in to the game and it made for a far more exciting game than the first half was."

Football League update

Wolves have moved to within four points of the Championship's top six after Nouha Dicko's winner at Watford.

The visitors carved out a string of first-half chances, Watford goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes denied David Edwards and Kortney Hause with fine saves.

Watford went close to equalising in the closing stages, but substitute Odion Ighalo hit the bar.

BBC Radio 5 live

It's almost time for BBC 606 with Caroline Barker and Robbie Savage.

The lines are open for you to have your say on all the day's action by calling 0500 909 693, text 85058 or @bbc606 on social media.

Happy 600 wins day!

Arsenal/Twitter

A personal milestone for Arsene Wenger as he secures his 600th win as Arsenal boss.

One person who won't be getting any celebratory cake though is Olivier Giroud. His sending off almost proved costly as QPR pressed in the closing stages, but Arsenal held on.

FULL-TIME

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That's it! Arsenal hold on to secure an important win as they move up to sixth.

...Niko Kranjcar sends the free-kick over the bar. Surely that is it?

YELLOW CARD

Francis Coquelin commits a foul 30 yards from goal and this is a last chance for QPR....

YELLOW CARD

Arsenal win a free-kick near the halfway line, with Niko Kranjcar getting a yellow card for a foul. A precious couple of seconds earned for Arsenal.

Graham Taylor

BBC Radio 5 live at Emirates Stadium

"What a waste there from QPR. They had Arsenal on the back foot and the cross was a complete waste from Junior Hoilett."

Four minutes of added time. Enough for QPR to find an equaliser?

Bobby Zamora screams for a penalty as he is challenged by Kieran Gibbs when trying to sweep home Junior Hoilett's cross from close range. Nothing given.

Graham Taylor

BBC Radio 5 live at Emirates Stadium

"That was close for Arsenal as for a second that header from Vargas looked in."

CLOSE!

Close for QPR as Niko Kranjcar drives in a corner and Eduardo Vargas flicks a header goalwards, but it is blocked on the line. All QPR.

SUBSTITUTION

Arsenal make a second change as Danny Welbeck makes way for Francis Coquelin, a regular from the bench in the closing stages of the last couple of games.

Calum Chambers is on to provide extra protection against Junior Hoilett, who is QPR's most dangerous player in these closing stages. Hoilett manages to get beyond Chambers but, fortunately for Arsenal, his cross is far too heavy and goes out for a goal kick.

Graham Taylor

BBC Radio 5 live at Emirates Stadium

"If this had stayed 11-a-side, it's fair to say this game would have been long decided in Arsenal's favour. That's what makes Giroud's actions even more baffling, why did he choose to do what he did?"

SUBSTITUTION

Arsene Wenger wants to shore things up as QPR press and on comes Calum Chambers for Tomas Rosicky. Can they hold on?

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Chris Fleming: Shocking decision. The ref is right there and Debuchy gets a touch for certain.

Ryan Mould: Not a penalty in the slightest - now lets see Arsenal's predictable collapse

John de Vliering: How could Martin Atkinson give that penalty???? Debuchy clearly got the ball.

We are into the final 10 minutes as Junior Hoilett runs at Mathieu Debuchy, but the Arsenal man has it under control this time, picking the ball off Hoilett and taking it out of the Arsenal area.

Graham Taylor

BBC Radio 5 live

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"I have to say this. I look where the referee was for that foul from Debuchy and he has the best possible view from five or six yards away and he makes his decision almost immediately. It will certainly be interesting to see what effect that goal has on the game. Will QPR press on in belief they can find an equaliser?"

GOAL

Reuters

In the form he is in, Charlie Austin has to take the spot kick. He does, and he sends it straight down the middle and into the back of the net. The fightback is on!

PENALTY TO QPR

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Chance for QPR to get back into the match as Junior Hoilett is caught by Matheiu Debuchy in the area, penalty...

Harry Redknapp wants a penalty as Bobby Zamora goes down under a challenge as he tries to get his head to Junior Hoilett's deep cross. Martin Atkinson is having none of it and Redknapp raises his arms in frustration.

Graham Taylor

BBC Radio 5 live at Emitrates Stadium

"Arsenal are so good at keeping possession that when you look out there at how this game is going, you wouldn't know they are down to 10 men."

SUBSTITUTION

With nothing to lose, QPR boss Harry Redknapp brings on Bobby Zamora for Jordon Mutch for the final 20 minutes of this game.

YELLOW CARD

Junior Hoilett is booked as he pulls down Mathieu Debuchy just outside the QPR area, Santi Cazorla can't make the most of the free-kick, though, as he fires over from 20 yards.

QPR were just starting to get into the game before Tomas Rosicky struck and, to their credit, they remain on the offensive despite that setback as Mauricio Isla wrong-foots his marker to wriggle into the area but a poor finish, and I mean really poor, lets him down as he effectively passes the ball to Wojciech Szczesny.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Jake Hevness: Losing a player doesn't matter, Arsenal only need one and that's Sanchez

Robert Whittaker: A walk in the park becomes a walk in the park

Graham Taylor

BBC Radio 5 live at Emirates Stadium

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"Tomas Rosicky put it in so well and cleanly there, but you have to look at Alexis Sanchez. When he gets the ball, he wants to run in to space, he wants to beat people. When he picks it up, the crowd really feel something's going to happen."

GOAL

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This will help settle Arsenal fans' nerves! Tomas Rosicky marks his first Premier League start since May with a composed finish. Alexis Sanchez was the creator, drawing in defenders before squeezing a pass to Rosicky on the right side of the area and he fires in low, with the ball helped into the net by a slight deflection.

SUBSTITUTION

QPR make a double change and it is not really a surprise to see Armand Traore make way as he is replaced by Junior Hoilett, while Leroy Fer comes on for Karl Henry.

Football League latest

Wolves have taken the lead at Vicarage Road against Watford in the late Championship game as Nouha Dicko nets his fifth goal of the season after a cross from Rajiv Van La Parra from the left wing.

Despite being a man down, Arsenal are in control and almost snatch a second when Santi Cazorla gets away down the left and passes to Kieran Gibbs, who flashes a cross low into the area, but Alexis Sanchez can't make the crucial connection.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Tom Sheen: No argument for what Giroud did but there's also no place for Onuoha throwing himself to the ground like that

Cliff B: Totally daft from Giroud. Wenger's face said it all. Pure hatred.

Ray King: Crazy by Giroud. But how weak was Onuoha flopping to the ground like that??

BBC Radio 5 live

Lines are now open for BBC 606 at full-time at Emirates Stadium from 19:30 with Caroline Barker and Robbie Savage.

Have your say on all the day's action by calling 0500 909 693, text 85058 or @bbc606 on social media.

Graham Taylor

BBC Radio 5 live

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"Giroud just ran off there, didn't look at Arsene Wenger at all there as he went down the tunnel. He knew exactly what he had done there straightaway. You just have to ask, what has he done there?"

RED CARD FOR ARSENAL

Reuters

Madness from Olivier Giroud, who has just given QPR a boost by getting himself needlessly sent off.

He looked to have been pushed by Nedum Onuoha as he chased a ball towards the QPR area and clashed with Rob Green, but reacted angrily by appearing to headbutt Onuoha. Referee Martin Atkinson was right next to the incident and immediately showed him the red card.

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Arsenal are in control, but it feels like they are just about doing the bare minimum. There's not much energy in this game from either side, and not much in the way of chances as a result.

Graham Taylor

BBC Radio 5 live at Emirates Stadium

"It will be interesting to see how this game goes from now. I would have loved to be a spy in both dressing rooms at half time, but especially the QPR one, as where do you go from here? You're already behind, so you need to do something to force a change in the momentum of the game."

Armand Traore had not started a game since early October before today. It shows. He gave away the penalty, was out of position for Arsenal's opener and has just given the ball away before clattering into Tomas Rosicky in an attempt to win it back. Set up for him to grab a late double?

KICK-OFF

Off we go with the second half. What will QPR's response be?

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Paul Moore: QPR look lifeless. 'Arry deserves better in twilight of career. Needs to go abroad. Start working on a cockney-dutch accent?

Merry Men of United

Manchester United goalkeeper David De Gea ‏on Twitter: A great victory at Old Trafford is the best way to enjoy a #BoxingDay. Thanks for your support!

Twitter

Manchester United striker Robin van Persie ‏on Twitter: Very important win today on Boxing Day vs Newcastle. Thanks all the people who came to the stadium & around the world who supported us!

Graham Taylor

BBC Radio 5 live at Emirates Stadium

"QPR will have to do what they do at home and really try and attack the opposition in the second half. But Arsenal are so good at keeping the ball at home and that's exactly what they've done so far. I'd like to see QPR pressing Arsenal a bit more when they have the ball. They're being a bit more cautious at the moment and standing off, but that isn't going to force the game."

Alexis Sanchez's 10th Premier League goal of the season marked a pretty significant milestone for the forward as he became the second fastest player to reach double figures in Arsenal's history, having done it in 17 league games.

The fastest? Ian Wright in 14 games. Arsenal fans will be happy if he can ultimately prove as much of a legendary player as Wright at the Gunners.

Football league latest

Goalless at half time at Vicarage Road. Wolves have had the better of the chances, but Watford holding on at the moment as they go for a fourth win in a row.

HALF-TIME

MOTD's Simon Brotherton at the Emirates

"Arsenal have been the superior of the two teams, despite the lack of chances at times. QPR are yet to test Szczesny in the Arsenal goal."

Graham Taylor

BBC Radio 5 live at Emirates Stadium

"Charlie Austin just hasn't had the supply so far up front for QPR. It's just been so one-sided."

QPR's biggest problem is they have left their main attacking threat, Charlie Austin, isolated. He is playing as a lone striker and is getting no service. Something Harry Redknapp will surely need to address for the second half.

Finally a chance for QPR as Steven Caulker heads wide after getting beyond Per Mertesacker. Never any danger for Wojciech Szczesny, though.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Miracle Roch: Sanchez you beautiful angel.

Wale ibraheem: Traore has been abysmal for QPR, he gave away a needless penalty and later turned spectator behind Sanchez. Terrible marking!

Kenneth: Thanks Sanchez!!! Nice goal. Keep it up

Graham Taylor

BBC Radio 5 live at Emirates Stadium

Reuters

"First class movement once again by Arsenal. When the ball came in from the cross, Sanchez finished it off so well at the far post, but he was completely unmarked. What QPR defenders are doing there, I have no idea."

GOAL

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Finally the breakthrough and it had to be Alexis Sanchez, who makes amends for his earlier penalty miss. A terrible one to concede from QPR's point of view, though, as Kieran Gibbs crosses towards the far post where Sanchez, completely unmarked, is on hand to head in.

Graham Taylor

BBC Radio 5 live at Emirates Stadium

"I think Arsenal are capable of making the top four, but I'm not sure if they will. I think Man Utd, Chelsea and Man City will, so there's very much one place up for grabs."

Opta

QPR's defence is being put under a bit of pressure as Arsenal become a bit more adventurous, Olivier Giroud this time seeing a well-hit shot deflect behind.

The visitors have not offered any attacking threat and if Arsenal don't take three points from this it will surely be a hefty blow to their top four hopes. Got to win these sort of games.

Football league latest

Currently goalless at Vicarage Road in the late Championship game between Watford and Wolves. Watford goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes has made three smart saves to deny the visitors an opening goal.

Graham Taylor

BBC Radio 5 live at Emirates Stadium

"We've been playing for 25 minutes or so, but for all of the possession Arsenal have had, they've only had three shots at goal."

CLOSE!

...Olivier Giroud takes the free-kick, curling it over the wall but Rob Green has it covered and claws the ball out of the air.

YELLOW CARD

Rio Ferdinand gives away a free-kick on the edge of the QPR area and earns a booking as a result. A good opportunity for Arsenal this...

PENALTY APPEAL

QPR are a little lucky not to concede another penalty with Nedum Onuoha all over Danny Welbeck. As things look, a spot kick or a set piece would be the most likely to result in the opener with not much happening in open play.

QPR haven't managed a shot on goal while Arsenal are wasteful. Fair to say it is not a classic.

Manager reaction

PA

Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal: "I was very pleased because we dominated for 90 minutes.

"In the second half we are only thinking already of the game against Tottenham (on Sunday) because there were unnecessary losses of the ball. But overall I'm very pleased with the performance.

"We make progress in every game but we are also doing bad things in every game and we have to improve that.

"But I'm satisfied because we are dominating a lot of games, most of the games we have played this season we have dominated. We're not always winning but that is coming."

Graham Taylor

BBC Radio 5 live at Emirates Stadium

"Arsenal having so much of the ball, Per Mertesacker has found himself as far forward as the opposition penalty area. It will be interesting if he finds himself on the end of a cross."

Getty Images

QPR are defending well at the moment with Arsenal limited to just half chances despite dominating possession. Danny Welbeck chases another ball into the box but Mauricio Isla pulls off a smart tackle to put the ball behind for a corner, which is then headed away by Charlie Austin.

Manager reaction

Sunderland head coach Gus Poyet on links with Celtic defender Virgil van Dijk, and Liverpool forward Fabio Borini: "The idea is to add quality if it's possible in January, it's not about getting bodies in. Getting quality in is what matters."

(On van Dijk): "We were in talks with them (Celtic) from the past, but there's a certain amount of money you can have, so I think it's a bit too early. With Fabio Borini, it's difficult."

Graham Taylor

BBC Radio 5 live at Emirates Stadium

"When you do miss a penalty as Alexis Sanchez did, every time you then get the ball, you want to make an impression. I think Sanchez just needs to relax a little and it will happen for Arsenal."

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Chris Wright: What a horrendous penalty by Alexis Sanchez! Not one of his qualities!

John de Vliering: That was one of the worst penalties I've ever seen by Alexis Sanchez. Took it too lightly

Arsenal are seeing more of the ball as Tomas Rosicky clips a pass into the box and Alexis Sanchez tries to wriggle past Armand Traore to get to it, but the QPR defender, who gave away the penalty, is much more switched on this time and confidently hooks clear.

Manager reaction

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Hull City manager Steve Bruce: "We could have buckled after conceding an early goal, but there were seven players out there who were the mainstay of the team when we got promoted, and they've showed great spirit. Our second half display was arguably as good as we've seen this season.

"It's always nice to come here and win, the stick I get maybe it's a little bit sweeter than if you get beat so it's a sweet Boxing Day.

"We're a newly promoted team that's been in the Premier League for 18 months. We've been blighted by a little bit of loss of a form and injuries. It's been difficult and it's still going to be difficult. Some of the injuries are long term but hopefully this result will give us a huge lift.

"We've got a huge game next up against Leicester who are up against it like us. I still believe we'll finish above where we did last year. Make no mistake we're a second season into this division, and we're playing teams who've been in the Premier League for years.

On his January transfer targets: "To be fair to the chairman since I walked through the door he's backed me but to be honest there's no one on the radar at present. If there's someone we think will make the difference then we'll ask the question."

Manager reaction

Stoke boss Mark Hughes on the match-winning penalty: "Bojan has done really, really well to get into the box and his back leg is clipped. Under those circumstances as a defender you've got to be really careful. It's a clear penalty."

On the Leighton Baines foul by Jon Walters: "I felt it was a clear foul and a yellow - and that was what was given. It was not a clear goal scoring opportunity with players running back and it was a little bit too far out."

On the Stoke game-plan: "It is not the first time - we've done the same at City and we won at Tottenham. Our away form is better than our home form. Last year maybe we didn't have the tools to be a threat on the road. Our home form will resolve itself and we'll pick up points there."

Graham Taylor

BBC Radio 5 live at Emirates Stadium

"Playing over the Christmas period is so special for supporters. I don't care what people say about a winter break at this time of year. You can have one, just don't have it over Christmas."

Steven Caulker strides across to snuff out an Arsenal attack as Danny Welbeck feeds a pass into the area for Olivier Giroud, but he is just beaten to the ball by Caulker.

Manager reaction

AP

West Brom manager Alan Irvine: "We started well but the first time City went up the pitch they got a goal which was down to our mistake. We continued to look as if we might score and we came very close on a few occasions.

"We still looked as if we were very much in the game but we made individual errors that when you make them in the Premier League are costly, and when you make them against Manchester City they are extremely costly."

Congratulations Neil Warnock for officially starting the January transfer window...

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Liam in Nottingham: Remember the glory years with David Moyes Everton? Not laughing as hard as you were this time last year!

Manager reaction

Crystal Palace manager Neil Warnock said: "The three goals we conceded were very poor. We are renowned for keeping a good defensive record, but you can't defend like that. Southampton did not have to work hard for their goals.

"I can't fault the players' effort, but I imagine QPR will be rubbing their hands with glee if they have seen our defending. Without criticising individuals, we're disappointed with all of the three goals. We have had words behind the scenes.

"We have to defend better and we have to score goals. We missed Marouane Chamakh and hopefully we can get a couple of players in to give us more options. We're looking at a lot of players and we have made some offers, but it is just about trying to get those deals over the line."

Manager reaction

Everton manager Roberto Martinez on a booking for Jon Walters: "The red card isn't a debate, the referee sees the infringement and gives the free kick and a yellow card. I don't understand. The moment he gives the free-kick it has to be a red, Leighton Baines is running into central area in front of goal.

"The penalty for Stoke - you know what the striker is looking for. I don't think there's enough contact in that situation.

"It became a really difficult afternoon for us losing two very important players for us.

"Everything that could go against us, did. We reacted well to the disappointment at St Mary's . I didn't see this coming. This is now a pivotal moment in our season for us."

Graham Taylor

BBC Radio 5 live at Emirates Stadium

"I tell you how bad that was, I think I could have saved that. It was a poor, poor penalty."

MISSED PENALTY

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Alexis Sanchez steps up for the penalty and it is uncharacteristically weak as he scuffs it towards Rob Green's left, it is an easy save for the QPR keeper.

PENALTY TO ARSENAL

Reuters

Alexis Sanchez is brought down by Armand Traore, cynically I might add, and Arsenal have a penalty...

Pretty quiet start to the game with neither side venturing too far from the halfway line when in possession, but Arsenal finally decide to have a little foray forward as Santi Cazorla tries his luck, but his shot is charged down.

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Brooksy in Northampton: Worried about Arsenal today. Not enough in that starting 11 to challenge. Put that together with the fact that Tottenham keep winning, and it could a Lean, Lean New Year in many Gunners homes. Gloomy times in my informed opinion.

Manager reaction

PA

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers to BBC Sport: "We knew coming into the game this was going to be tough. Burnley work so hard, they're very well organised and they go from the first whistle to the last. Our football wasn't as fluent as it could have been but we've kept a clean sheet, won the game and it's a big three points for us.

"We defended well in the first half but didn't play well. We needed to show a bit more composure from behind. I brought Emre Can on and I thought he was outstanding.

"Brad Jones got a knock on his thigh and he felt it with his first kick and couldn't continue. Simon Mignolet came in and took a few good crosses. It's good for his confidence that he went on to keep a clean sheet.

"It's been well documented that we've not been at the level we'd like, but I feel we have been improving in the last few weeks."

Graham Taylor

BBC Radio 5 live at Emirates Stadium

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"The very early stages show that with Arsenal in possession, they look very comfortable. I think this is an important game for Arsenal as they can make a real statement about their aim to make it in to the top four."

'We've run over the cat'

Leicester boss Nigel Pearson on BBC Sport: "I don't know where the black cat is and whether we have run it over but it is a particularly disappointing outcome because our performance was very good. We caused them a lot of problems but are falling short of seeing games through.

"That remains a big frustration and we need to change it very quickly. We have to continue to strive towards working as hard as we can to change that. The bottom line is at this level the quality is the defining factor. A lot of our play has been exceptionally good but we have not made the most of our own chances. The winning goal comes out of nothing and Ben Hamer would expect to save it.

"We will keep going. You can never submit to the negativity from external avenues. We have to make sure we remain positive of what we are capable of. We have to keep knocking until the door yields. At the moment we are finding life very tough because the margins are so tight. That is the harsh realities of the Premier League. To stay here we have to up our level and resilience and I have every faith in the players to do that."

You'd expect Alexis Sanchez to be at the heart of everything good Arsenal do today and he is straight in the thick of the action by bringing the ball under control on the right with a smart touch and crossing into the area, but QPR hack clear.

KICK-OFF

Arsenal have only lost one of their 17 previous Boxing Day Premier League matches, can they extend that impressive run today?

QPR get us up and running at Emirates Stadium.

Manager reaction

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Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini on his side's 3-1 win after a second-half snowstorm at The Hawthorns: "I am very pleased with the performance. It was very difficult to play, especially in the second half. In the first 45 minutes, both teams could play and we did very well and scored three goals. In the second half, it was more difficult."

Manager reaction

Swansea manager Garry Monk: "It was a tough game. In the first half we played some lovely stuff, had an early goal and could have had one or two more. We showed great defensive qualities, and there was a great save from Lukasz Fabianski in the end.

"It was a great stop at a crucial point of the game. Overall, we defended very well. In these conditions today, some of our football was good. Gylfi practices most days with those free-kicks so it's no fluke. We had a couple of chances where we could have made it more comfortable - both teams dug in and tried to win the game and thankfully it was us. We're improving all the time. These types of results are good for the mentality. Ultimately, we have to be happy. Three points, a clean sheet, is very good."

There is a late game in the Championship too as Watford host Wolves. That kicks off at 17:30 GMT and we'll be keeping an eye on that, with updates here, as Watford look to strengthen their play-off hopes.

Football league late game

One more game to come in the Championship this evening at Vicarage Road where Watford have the chance to go above Brentford in to fifth place with a win against Wolves.

Watford striker Troy Deeney has passed a late fitness test and starts up front for the home side who have won their last three games.

Robbie Savage

BBC Final Score

"A great win for Swansea today, but I think Brad Guzan in the Villa goal can save the free-kick from Gylfi Sigurdsson. If he stays where he is on the line, he can get to it as the ball doesn't go in in the corner."

Manager reaction

Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino on Sky Sports: "I'm happy for the result. We started very well, scored early and had many chances to score. After 20 minutes we lost control of the game. It was an open game and Leicester played very well.

"Never in the Premier League is it easy. Leicester played very well. You can never relax in the Premier League. The level of our league is high and Leicester deserved more, because it didn't reflect their performance on the day."

Manager reaction

Burnley manager Sean Dyche to BBC Sport: "We got our pockets picked today. I wasn't happy [for Liverpool's goal] because there was a clear foul on Ashley Barnes that was not given. Liverpool get a goal kick that leads to a goal. These are the fine lines in the Premier League. We're delivering performances that show we're up for the challenge."

Manager reaction

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Southampton manager Ronald Koeman said: "I'm very pleased and we were very solid. We scored some good goals and defended well.

"We dealt with the long balls and the direct, physical play of Crystal Palace and that was the key. We knew we had more quality but it would be a battle and a fight and we were well prepared for that."

Southampton play Chelsea at home on Sunday and Koeman added: "For everybody Chelsea are the biggest test. In my opinion they are the best team in the Premier League until now, but we believe in ourselves and it will be a great game."

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Faustino Asprilla: Everton fans complaining about Martinez? Try being a Newcastle fan with no signs of Mike Ashley or Pardew's departure. Dark days.

Rob Ward: Utter madness. Who are these Everton 'fans' calling for Martinez to be sacked? Too much Christmas sherry

Robbie Savage

BBC Final Score

"The attacking options Manchester United have got are endless. Rooney played in a slightly deeper position today and his passing and his runs gave them an added dimension. Going to Old Trafford at the moment is a very intimidating place to play."

Gunnersaurus is providing some Boxing Day cheer for wet fans as the rain falls at Emirates Stadium. The conditions are not quite as bad as we have seen in some of the other games this afternoon, but not pleasant for those in the stands.

Arsenal really need the three points today after their rivals won this afternoon, but they will need to be mindful of the ever-dangerous Charlie Austin. QPR can be off their game but if Austin gets half a chance, you'd fancy him to take it.

Football League updates

The late Championship game this evening is Watford against Wolves at Vicarage Road. Watford have won their last three games, Wolves have won only once in their last eight league games.

The form line suggest it is only going one way. But in the Championship, that sort of thing doesn't mean too much.

Kick-off is at 17:30 GMT.

BBC Radio 5 live

BBC

BBC Radio 5 live has full match commentary on the final Premier League fixture of the day. Listen via the Live Coverage tab at the top of this page.

Not much to choose between the two sides in terms of recent form. A tight fixture on the cards?

Jonathan Pearce

BBC Match of the Day commentator at The Hawthorns

"It was a magnificent Manchester City in the first half and it brought back memories of Spain in the sunshine playing with a false no. 9. David Silva did that job perfectly for them today. The snow came down in the second half and West Brom tightened it up, pulled a goal back, but by then City had taken Silva off. It was a mesmeric display of passing from them in the first half."

Kevin Kilbane

BBC Final Score

"They still created chances today West Brom, so that's something for Man City to work on, but it was a very attractive display from them."

Manager reaction

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Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert: "We're very pleased with how we played. I thought we were fantastic throughout the game. I thought we passed the ball excellently and the goalkeeper kept them in the game. If you ask the lads in the dressing room, they want the games to come quickly because they're playing well.

"Christian Benteke had done everything, put the header across goal, but Lukasz Fabianski came up with a great save. The way we're playing is really pleasing. We've changed the way we've played over the last three to four weeks and the lads have been brilliant with it."

Does Paul know that Villa lost today?

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Oladayo: Martinez has his work cut out for this Everton team. They look a shadow of that team we saw last season

Aron Moore: Absolutely woeful all around. Tempo, threat, the ref, injuries, balance (again), attitude all bad

Andrew Bronte: Martinez has to go before relegation becomes realistic. Lukaku, Barry, Howard not good enough. Eto'o only ever bench!! Madness

Down at the bottom

BBC

Down at the bottom and today's losers are, well, today's losers.

Leicester, Burnley and Crystal Palace all lose at home and are in the relegation slots, while Hull get a huge win for boss Steve Bruce at former side Sunderland.

Top of the shops

BBC

Chelsea remain three points clear of Manchester City then after both sides picked up comfortable enough victories this afternoon. Manchester United and Southampton round out the top four but they are a long way back.

Football League updates

In League One, Bristol City survived a scare when Ben Nugent's late penalty put Yeovil within striking distance at 2-1 down three minutes from time at Ashton Gate.

They finish the day a point clear of MK Dons, Swindon and Preston, who chalked up wins over Notts County, Walsall and Barnsley respectively.

In League Two, Shrewsbury leapfrog over Wycombe and into top spot after their win away at Oxford and Wanderers draw at home to Luton.

Team news

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Callum Chambers misses out for Arsenal so Nacho Monreal comes in to partner Per Mertersacker at centre-half, while Mathieu Debuchy shifts to right-back. Tomas Rosicky starts in place of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.

QPR recall centre-back Rio Ferdinand who replaces Richard Dunne in a three-man defence, while Maricio Isla comes in at right-back. Jordon Mutch and Nico Kranjcar play in the middle alongside Karl Henry.

Arsenal XI: Szczesny, Debuchy, Mertesacker, Monreal, Gibbs, Flamini, Cazorla, Rosicky, Alexis, Giroud, Welbeck.

QPR XI: Green, Isla, Onuoha, Ferdinand, Caulker, Traore, Mutch, Henry, Kranjcar, Vargas, Austin.

We've had torrential rain and heavy snow in some of this afternoon's fixtures, but the weather looks to be not too bad in London as we switch focus to Arsenal versus QPR, kicking off in just under 30 minutes.

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Michael Louw: So many issues for Spurs. Defence awful. Midfield lose the ball too often and the forwards don't score enough. Chequebook time

FULL-TIME

Stoke have won it. Plenty of bad blood around the referee and rival players though. Everyone's got a view on that one.

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Sarah Morgan: Perhaps now Liverpool have won with Simon Mignolet in goal his time as managerial scapegoat will be over.

Andy Knowles: Good away win for Man City! Tricky conditions in the second half so good to see it through. Keeps pressure on Chelsea

STILL PLAYING. Everton have a throw...

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Niall Hughes: Gareth Barry has been awful all season, must be a Roberto Martinez favourite! Giving away silly goals and missing sitters

Neil Knighton: No idea how Spurs won. Glad we nicked it, not the performance we needed before the Man Utd and Chelsea games though.

Alex Bolton: Need to start placing bets on Tottenham to win 2-1 each week

Stoke playing keepball down in the corner, Goodison all but empty...

Football League updates

Bournemouth keep marching on at the top of the Championship with Brett Pitman and Harry Arter's goals giving them a 2-0 win over Fulham.

Derby have thrown down the gauntlet though with a thumping 4-0 away win over Birmingham.

They are still playing though at the Amex where Inigo Calderon has just scored for the hosts to give Brighton 2-2 and parity against Reading.

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Ahmer Murad: Away win. A desperately needed away win. Narrow, but 3 points for Liverpool. And a clean sheet. I'll take that.

Jay: So it's up to QPR to provide the upset of the day!

Doug Robinson: Spurs winning 2-1? Utterly unpredictable, that scoreline...

Still playing at Everton - where we had 10 minutes of stoppage-time at the end of the first half - and Steven Naismith has a chance! Played in by Samuel Eto'o, he just can't get a shot away under pressure from Erik Pieters.

Kevin Mirallas is then caught by Charlie Adam - the latest in a long line of bad tackles today. Adam stood on his Achilles.

FULL-TIME

GOAL

AP

Nikica Jelavic has only been on the pitch a matter of minutes but he wraps up a much-needed win for Hull as he rounds the goalkeeper and fires in with Sunderland pushing forward.

James Milner hands his shirt to the away fans at The Hawthorns. Does he know it's snowing? A great win for Manchester City though as they keep pace with leaders Chelsea. A two-horse race at the top.

FULL-TIME

FULL-TIME

Leicester must be kicking themselves as the full-time whistle goes. Tottenham take the victory, despite a strong second-half from Leicester.

FULL-TIME

Mark Lawrenson

BBC Radio 5 live

"Manchester United conceded such a sloppy penalty and goal, that would drive the manager mad. They had complete control of the game.

"It was just a comfortable win. They weren't good defensively in the first half but very good going forward. Wayne Rooney was the best player today. A deserved win. As for Newcastle, they were bright for 15-20 minutes going forward in the first half but inept defensively."

FULL-TIME

Reuters

FULL-TIME

Lukasz Fabianski produces a superb one-handed save to deny a Christian Benteke equaliser for Aston Villa. That could be crucial with seconds left.

FULL-TIME

If you can't win well, win ugly. Big away win for Liverpool.

Football League update

Extraordinary comeback by Rotherham who have scored in the 88th and 90th minutes through Jonson Clarke-Harris and Lee Frecklington to pull level at 2-2 at home to Huddersfield.

Malky Mackay is heading for his first victory as Wigan boss. James McClean has just added a second for the Latics away to Leeds. 2-0 there.

In League Two, Shrewsbury are heading top as it stands. They are 2-0 up away to Oxford while Wycombe are still being held by Luton.

FULL-TIME

No last-minute drama as Southampton take the points.

SIX minutes of injury time at Sunderland. Can the hosts snatch an equaliser?

INJURY TIME

Into THREE MINUTES of added time at Turf Moor. Can the Clarets grab it?

CLOSE!

Oh my word! How has Wes Morgan not equalised? The cross comes in, Hugo Lloris is nowhere and Morgan just has to poke into the empty goal but he connects poorly and Lloris gobbles up the loose ball as it dribbles goalwards.

That came after Leicester appealed for a penalty when Jan Vertonghen slid in on Jamie Vardy, but the referee was having none of it. Leicester are pushing in these final few minutes.

GOAL

Getty Images

A right old scramble in the snow! Joe Hart misses the ball from a corner, it hits the back of Bacary Sagna's head and then appears to go in off Brown Ideye. That could change though - it's very tricky to see who got the decisive touch...

YELLOW CARD

Not for the first time today Gareth Barry is late and leaves a mark on a midfield opponent. Barry is in the book now.

Football League update

Middlesbrough have got a deserved second to move 2-0 up on Nottingham Forest. Jelle Vossen with the goal, although the visitors have been hampered by Kelvin Wilson's dismissal. A little under 10 minutes to go.

GOAL

Reuters

What a penalty that is! Papiss Cisse opens up his body and sidefoots the ball right into the top corner. Brilliant strike.

GOAL

Getty Images

Well this game was fizzling towards its conclusion but there could yet be some late drama as Scott Dann pulls one back with a header. Can they?

PENALTY to Newcastle

Jack Colback bursts into the box and is tagged by Phil Jones.

Burnley just can't get up a head of steam. They do have Sam Vokes on the pitch though, his first appearance since March after a long spell out with a knee injury.

Where's the late drama?

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Big Kev, at Old Trafford: Could see Newcastle's form taking a real nosedive now in my honest opinion. Nothing on show here today - could really go down if there's no money to spend in January. Very Envious of the riches on show for Man United today.

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Tim Purcell: Cometh the snow, cometh Emile He-ski. He'snow joke you know

David Shaw: Another game where Paddy McNair has started for United and we have won

David Nugent has had little impact for Leicester and he is replaced by Jamie Vardy for the last 15 minutes. The striker quickly tries to make his mark when he finds space inside the area and has a go at goal, but his effort is easy pickings for Hugo Lloris, who makes the save at his near post.

Football League updates

Norwich are dishing out a hammering to Millwall at Carrow Road in the Championship. Gary Hooper has put the Canaries 5-0 up and there are still another 15 minutes to go.

Derby look like they are home and hosed against Birmingham with a jinking run and finish from Craig Forsyth giving them a 3-0 lead.

SUBSTITUTION

Still half an hour to go at Goodison though thanks to those first-half injuries. Bojan, the brightest man on the park for Stoke, comes off. Charlie Adam is on to add his not-inconsiderable tackling prowess to an already robust fixture.

The Spaniard had - so far - been the difference between the two sides and wasn't adhering to the typical 'foreign player in a cold British winter' cliche.

James McCarthy, just back from a long injury lay-off - and the man who brought down Bojan - then departs a minute later for Samuel Eto'o.

LAST 15 MINUTES

Quarter of an hour to go.

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Matt Long: If the snow sticks will the refs use a different colour vanishing spray?

GREAT SAVE!

So close to a Newcastle consolation as Ayoze Perez mugs Darren Fletcher, drives into the box and David De Gea just about keeps the ball out at the base of his near post. Fine work once more.

Hull are still the better side in this half, with Sone Aluko particularly lively. He gets half a yard on the edge of the area and wraps his foot around the ball as he tries to find the top corner, but sends his effort high and wide.

CLOSE!

Great chance for Joleon Lescott against his old club - and he can't blame the pitch! He has a free header six yards out, but puts it over the bar. Frank Lampard is on for City, a 15-minute run out in atrocious conditions.

DISALLOWED GOAL

Very tidy finish from Rickie Lambert, steering home a cross from the left - but he was a yard offside.

Football League updates

In League One, Bristol City have gone 2-0 up on Yeovil through Jay-Emmanuel Thomas' cool penalty conversion.

Swindon are running away with it away to Walsall. Adam Williams has just scored his side's fourth and they are on the happy end of a 4-1 scoreline.

Great work by Gylfi Sigurdsson presents Ki Sung-yueng with the chance to add a second for Swansea, but he slices his effort wide. Still, the hosts look on target for three points.

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Johnny from Bath: I knew Liverpool were daft to get rid of Emile Heskey in 2004 -they could do with him right now!

Tom in Sheffield: Heskey! Legend still, what a way to announce your return to British football!

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Steven Kinghan: There is snow way Mark Clattenberg will call this game off.

Getty Images

Without wishing to repeat myself, the snow is really becoming an issue now. You can only just see the lines and players are struggling to keep their feet. Where's the orange ball?!

CLOSE!

Asmir Begovic to the rescue, stopping a well-hit effort from Leighton Baines and ensuring Stoke remain in front.

It really was a low crisp strike across goal from the Everton man. The ball eventually goes out for a goal kick and Begovic takes his time with the restart.

Philippe Coutinho skips away from two tired challenges and his deflected shot hits the side-netting. Still anyone's at Turf Moor.

Kevin Kilbane

BBC Final Score

"Ben Hamer is trying to anticipate the cross there and is already coming of his line. Christian Eriksen has anticipated that, but it's still poor goalkeeping."

SUBSTITUTION

Michael Carrick and Radamel Falcao are given the last 25 minutes off. Job well and truly done at Old Trafford.

GOAL

Getty Images

Leicester may have been on top but give away a free-kick in Christian Eriksen territory and you are asking for trouble. That is exactly what happens as Spurs win a free-kick 25 yards from goal, Eriksen curls it towards goal and it creeps in off the near post. Ben Hamer probably should have done better though - the shot bounced after all.

Leighton Baines' excellent corner is helped over the top by a Stoke defender. Everton grow frustrated - they really haven't created enough today.

Crystal Palace are offering little of note now as Southampton again come forward, this time Sadio Mane has a pop from distance and although his curling effort is certainly well struck, it flies just over Julian Speroni's goal.

Mark Pougatch

BBC Radio 5 live at The Hawthorns

BBC Sport

On Twitter: Snow threatening to settle at The Hawthorns. (That's enough snow pics Thankyou - Ed.)

CLOSE!

Simon Mignolet, what are you up to? The Liverpool keeper gets a backpass, he waits and waits to make his clearance and waits so long that the ball is over the line for a corner! Basics.

From the corner Michael Keane then heads into the side-netting.

SUBSTITUTION

Nacer Chadli's work for the day is done. He set up Tottenham's opener but since equalising Leicester have been well on top and Spurs throw on some fresh legs in the shape of Roberto Soldado.

Moments later, Jeffrey Schlupp forces Hugo Lloris into a good save with a decent effort as the Foxes come forward again. The home side are going for it.

Football League updates

Middlesbrough look like they might bounce back from the defeat they suffered against Ipswich on Saturday. They have gone 1-0 up on Nottingham Forest thanks to George Friend's header.

Elsewhere in the Championship Huddersfield are 2-0 up on Rotherham thanks to Conor Coady's striker.

Emile Heskey-inspired Bolton lead Blackburn 2-1 as Darren Pratley puts them ahead.

Bradley Johnson meanwhile has put Norwich 4-0 up against a beleaguered Millwall at Carrow Road.

Snow Joke

The snow is starting to really settle on The Hawthorns pitch now, the ball is not running 100% properly. Referee Mark Clattenburg may have to seriously consider the future of this one if it continues. There are 25 minutes left.

Robbie Savage

BBC Final Score

"To be fair, Emile Heskey went off to Australia for a season with Newcastle Jets and to come back to the Championship, he looks fit and full or running. It'll be a great experience for both him and the rest of the lads there at Bolton."

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Dom Goggins: Gudjohnson sets up Heskey. What decade are we in?

Nick Goldsmith: Heskey for England!!

Gareth Soye: Liverpool to sign Heskey in January transfer window.

CLOSE!

A rasping effort from Nathaniel Clyne stings the hands of Julian Speroni as Southampton hunt a fourth. Crystal Palace look terribly out of sorts now.

Mark Lawrenson

BBC Radio 5 live

Getty Images

"Wayne Rooney has been fantastic today. He has been omnipresent and some of his passing has been great. Playing in behind Radamel Falcao and Robin van Persie, that is a deadly trio."

GOAL

Reuters

How reliant are Liverpool on this man? They've not played well today but lead thanks to brilliant forward play from Raheem Sterling. Philippe Coutinho sends him in with a clip over the top, Burnley keeper Tom Heaton gambles to come out, Sterling beats him for pace and gets there, rounding him to score. Great finish on his left foot.

Roberto Martinez looks as flustered as he ever gets as Ross Barkley shoots meekly wide. Everton are not quite at it at the moment. Europa hangover?

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Paul Walmsley: Perhaps the Liverpool-Burnley game should be abandoned. Severe danger of a stadium of people falling asleep.

Ian Marks: Spurs desperately need a win, look at their next two games, if we play like this then, our goal difference will be -10

Within seconds! Emile Heskey puts Bolton level with Blackburn. Amazing...

Strong words from Steve Bruce at half-time seems to have done the trick with Hull City very much showing their teeth in this half. Sone Aluko gets sight of goal but his shot lacks power and Costel Pantilimon makes the save.

Football League updates

It's Heskey time! Former England striker Emile is thrown into the mix for his Bolton debut. The Trotters still trail Blackburn 1-0 at home.

Bournemouth could have almost sealed Championship top spot for the day, but Brett Pitman's penalty has been well saved by Marcus Bettinelli in the Fulham goal. It is Jack Grimmer who has his goalkeeper to thank after his foul on Callum Wilson gave away the spot kick.

Norwich have gone 3-0 up on Millwall at Carrow Road with Bradley Johnson's fierce finish.

In League One Swindon have scored twice early in the second half - through Massimo Luongo and Andy Williams - to go 3-1 up on Walsall.

James Morrison has a low shot saved by Joe Hart after poor play from Eli Mangala. Hart sprawled to his right to gather at the second attempt after it had initially threatened to slip through his grasp.

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Niall McDermott: Would be such a typical City moment to have this game called off because of the snow

Bryn Wilkes: Call the Albion v City game off it's far too dangerous. I think 0-0 is fair, let's leave it at that

Chance for the Albion, Silvestre Varela ghosting in beyond the far post to meet a cross but he stabs wide. The snow is really quite considerable at The Hawthorns.

SUBSTITUTION

Aston Villa need a goal in sodden Swansea so striker Andreas Weimann comes on as a half-time substitute for the visitors in place of left-back Aly Cissokho.

In contrast to our other games, it's fairly dull at Turf Moor. No catalyst for change from Liverpool's half-time substitution,. while Burnley's early pep has gone flat.

KICK-OFF

Eventually......

Mark Lawrenson

BBC Radio 5 live

Getty Images

"It's a really good goal from a Manchester United point of view but dear oh dear Newcastle. First Juan Mata runs 20 yards without being challenged, then Wayne Rooney clips the ball into the box and Robin van Persie has a free header. It looked simple and it was but Newcastle at the back? Oh dear.

"There is so much time and space for Manchester United to play everywhere. It is so easy for them at the moment."

HITS THE WOODWORK

The Leicester City fans are up for it now and their side almost take the lead as Riyad Mahrez's curling 20-yard free-kick cannons off the bar to safety. The Foxes are well on top now.

SUBSTITUTION

Joel Robles is coming on in goal for Everton, also on at the break is defender Antolin Alacaraz. Tim Howard was injured taking a goal-kick.

GOAL

AP

A near-post header from James Chester and the Tigers find themselves in front after trailing at one point in this game.

This would be a massive three points for Steve Bruce if his team can hold on.

GOAL

Getty Images

Brilliant start to the second half for Southampton and, having looked in danger of conceding a Crystal Palace equaliser towards the end of the first half, they now have a pretty comfortable lead. Toby Alderweireld grabs his first goal for the Saints with a bullet of a header.

GOAL

Getty Images

Newcastle stand off Manchester United and are punished again. Wayne Rooney adds an assist to his brace of goals, floating a 45-yard through ball over the top and Robin van Persie heads into the net.

Robbie Savage

BBC Final Score

"Riyad Mahrez cuts inside there and gets the ball across the face of goal. Ulloa manages to get a yard ahead of Fazio to finish off at the near post for Leicester."

Injury worries for Manchester City as the snow starts to really come down now. Could this game even be at risk? Complete speculation from an uneducated commentator there. But it is really falling down.

David Silva needs some extensive treatment but he's OK to carry on.

GOAL

Getty Images

Leo Ulloa had been Leicester's biggest threat in the first half, but just did not have his finishing boots on. That is not the case at the start of the second half as he cleverly flicks home at the near post from Riyad Mahrez's cross. Game on at a very wet King Power Stadium.

Genuine snow now at The Hawthorns, settling in David Silva's hair.

GOAL

Getty Images

Perfect start to the second half as Southampton double their advantage, Ryan Bertrand curling the ball beyond Julian Speroni.

SUBSTITUTION

Half-time change for Liverpool, midfielder Emre Can has been introduced for Kolo Toure. A change of system perhaps?

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Anup Kumar: Liverpool obviously still waiting for Santa to arrive and give presents instead of taking matters in their own hands

Abdullahi Ay: Burnley's improvement is evident in the way they dominated Liverpool. Favourites to beat the drop

Milo Thompson: Newcastle lose whenever Gouffran plays. When will Pardew see that it's not a coincidence?

KICK-OFF

Games getting back under way in the top flight - don't forget though that Everton v Stoke has only just gone half-time. A long delay in that one.

David Moyes in the building! The Real Sociedad boss is at Turf Moor, taking in life back in the Premier League again. Maybe he's scouting a new signing. Michael Duff in La Liga?

COMING UP

MOTD's Simon Brotherton at the Emirates

"Arsenal fans have enjoyed the traditional Boxing Day fixtures for years now, having only seen their team beaten once on 26 December under Arsene Wenger.

"In fact, the Gunners have only lost once on Boxing Day since the formation of the Premier League. Their festive home record has been rock solid in recent years too, winning the last seven in a row, starting with a 3-0 victory over QPR in 1995.

"They beat West Ham this time last year and Wenger will be hoping it's a Christmas tradition that continues as they begin a run of three games in the space of seven days."

Everton sub keeper Joel Robles is a lone man warming up in the rain. Is that Tim Howard done?

A cracking half of football all round then. Eleven first-half goals, injuries, illness, bad tackles, brilliant play and shocking misses.

Football League update

Half-time whistles blowing around the country and in the Championship Bournemouth are keeping up their chase for an automatic promotion place.

The Cherries lead Fulham at the Goldsands Stadium through Brett Pitman's strike.

Below them, Derby are 2-0 up and cruising against Birmingham thanks to goals from Jordan Ibe and Chris Martin.

At the top of League One, Bristol City, MK Dons and Preston are all 1-0 up against Yeovil, Notts County and Barnsley respectively, but Swindon are losing ground on the rest. They are currently being held 1-1 away to Walsall.

In League Two, Shrewsbury are moving top as it stands. They lead 2-0 away to Oxford while fellow promotion chasers Wycombe head to the dressing rooms level at 1-1 at home to Luton.

HALF-TIME

Yet another injury scare for Everton as Tim Howard is helped from the pitch with what looks like a locked knee.

There'll be running repairs on Jagielka, Stones, Howard and Barkley during the interval and I'd be surprised if they all re-appeared for the second half.

CLOSE!

Got to score! Oh no. Steven Naismith deliciously picks out Kevin Mirallas with a sweeping pass. The Belgian has space and time but is wasteful, his effort going the wrong side of the post.

Getty Images

A fairly even half at Turf Moor, possession wise, but Burnley had 10 attempts on goal to Liverpool's four. If Liverpool did turn the corner against Arsenal, they're back on the ring road now.

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Ahmer Murad: Happy going in 0-0 first half. Poor show all round, particularly in midfield. Gerrard was almost invisible.

Ada: Liverpool's midfield sitting deeper then a submarine at the moment. It's like we have seven defenders on the pitch.

Still playing at Goodison, where there were 10 minutes of added time. Boxing Day Bonus.

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Robbie, at Old Trafford: About time Alan Pardew goes. This has ruined Christmas. Bring Alan Shearer back, he would have the passion and grit to get Newcastle back to the top in my opinion. Pardew shows no passion for the club - that's not what we want or need at Newcastle. Take that small run out, and we'd be in a lot of trouble. He needs to go.

Mark Lawrenson

BBC Radio 5 live

"I don't think there is a way back for Newcastle. Defensively, you can still get at Manchester United but they are so quick on the break and their play has been irresistible. They will score a hatful today. Michael Carrick in behind the front players is very good for them.

"It's just been about the quality of Manchester United on the ball, they have lots of time on the ball. Simplicity in the two goals they have scored but they deserve their lead."

HALF-TIME

MOTD's Martin Fisher at the Stadium of Light

"Sunderland failed to build on a dream start as Adam Johnson gleefully dipped his bread inside the first minute. Hull City finished the half on the front foot."

HALF-TIME

West Brom are booed off.

HALF-TIME

John Roder

Match of the Day commentator at the Liberty Stadium

"Gylfi Sigurdsson's sumptuous free-kick gave Swansea an early lead at a very wet Liberty Stadium. Christain Benteke, also with a free-kick, came closest to an equaliser but Villa have rarely threatened."

PENALTY APPEAL

A let-off for Hull as Alex Bruce appears to handle the ball in the area, but nothing given. Still all square as half-time approaches.

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Stephen Brogarth: Roberto Martinez is a one trick pony. Everyone knows what formation and style we will play. So predictable. Two strikers on at half time or fired.

Martin Potter: How many defensive players are Villa playing with today? I count seven! Lambert needs to go!

HALF-TIME

HALF-TIME

HALF-TIME

PA

HALF-TIME

MOTD's Dan O'Hagan at Selhurst Park

"Southampton are on top at Selhurst Park, but only just. Since their goal, scored by Sadio Mane, Southampton have had to ride their luck. Crystal Palace have had more of an attacking threat since they fell behind."

Football League updates

A lovely slaloming solo goal from Josh King has given Blackburn a 1-0 lead away to Bolton.

Elsewhere in the Championship, Sheffield Wednesday are ahead against bottom side Blackpool through Chris Maguire.

Brighton have got one back at home to Reading with Jake Forster-Caskey bundling in. The Royals lead 2-1.

Pantomime goalkeeping from Asmir Begovic as he juggles with a high ball and drops it behind for a corner. Plenty going on in the box, it's been a very lively opening half at Goodison.

Begovic then drops it again and Steven Naismith has a header cleared off the line!

There are 10 MINUTES ADDED ON at Goodison. Don't go anywhere.

Entertaining stuff at Crystal Palace with both sides having managed a total of 13 shots, although only a handful of those have been particularly threatening. James Ward-Prowse goes close when his looping header lands on top of the bar. Southampton definitely need a second goal to truly feel comfortable.

Burnley aren't ahead, but they are giving it a real go. George Boyd fires over from 20 yards, before Scott Arfield also goes close. All hands to the pump at the back for Liverpool.

The Manchester United fans at Old Trafford have been kept on the edge of their seats by this game so far. It's end-to-end stuff. Wayne Rooney's clinical finishing has been the difference at one end, while David De Gea has been the difference at the other. He makes another fine save to repel a Moussa Sissoko drive.

HITS THE WOODWORK

This is not Leonardo Ulloa's day! After first fluffing an attempted cross in pretty embarrassing fashion, he somehow heads onto the post with the goal at his mercy. He must have been barely six yards out and should have done better but, to be fair, Leicester have Tottenham rattled at the moment.

Kevin Kilbane

BBC Final Score

"Bojan does really well as he's right on the byline and then cuts back across James McCarthy. He feels the contact, it may only be slight, but it's enough for him to go over for the foul that leads to the penalty."

Mark Lawrenson

BBC Radio 5 live

PA

"That Wayne Rooney goal came from a sliding challenge from Radamel Falcao. He looks really sharp today. United worked it brilliantly after that. Very simple, but very good football."

A glimmer of fight from West Brom as they forge their first real chance of the day - Craig Gardner slamming a shot right down the middle and a good save from Joe Hart.

GOAL

Getty Images

James McCarthy shakes his head. He is not happy. Bojan is not bothered. In the least. The Spaniard slots a low precise spot kick into the corner. Boos around Goodison.

Football League update

After missing two sitters, Bristol City's Matt Smith makes the breakthrough at Ashton Gate nodding in from Joe Bryan's cross against Yeovil. His side are top of League One as it stands.

Their closest pursuers are MK Dons who have gone ahead away to Notts County through Daniel Powell.

Robbie Savage

BBC Final Score

"What West Brom don't need now is to go five or 6-0 down, otherwise the manager is going to get a heap of problems."

PENALTY TO STOKE

Bojan brought down by James McCarthy.

Seconds earlier there was drama at the other end as Leighton Baines was hauled down by Jon Walters about 35 yards out to end a clear(ish) run on goal. Yellow? Red? Ref Lee Mason opts for yellow.

GOAL

Reuters

Newcastle lose the ball just outside the area, it's asking for trouble and they get it. Juan Mata takes it on and frees Wayne Rooney inside the box, he gives the keeper the eyes and slots home.

Kevin Kilbane

BBC Final Score

"It's not Costel Pantilimon's fault that goal. It's a decent enough strike from Ramirez, but as he's diving to his left, the ball has hit a bobble there and bounced twice as high as he expected."

Good work from Ben Hamer in the Leicester goal as he keeps out a Nacer Chadli effort, the Spurs man making a bit of room for himself and getting a shot away, but Hamer does well to bat the ball to safety.

Spurs should double their lead minutes later as Nabil Bentaleb races clear on goal before a horrible touch allows the Foxes defence to recover and clear.

GOAL

Reuters

A walk in the rain for Manchester City. A stroll in the sleet. So, so easy for City as Fernando leads the charge, he finds Jesus Navas, who cuts it back to David Silva. The Spaniard takes a touch and just calm as you like passes the ball into the far corner.

GOAL

PA

How about this then. Hull have not been in this game at all but are handed a massive slice of luck when Gaston Ramirez's shot bobbles hugely on a cut up pitch and evades the dive of Costel Pantilimon.

CLOSE!

Close indeed! Kevin Mirallas takes aim from 20 yards, the ball is deflected into the side-netting. Gareth Barry then has a chance from the corner but scuffs his shot wide.

Mark Lawrenson

BBC Radio 5 live

PA

"This Manchester United side will create a host of chances because they have five forwards. For Newcastle, they are good on the break but poor defensively. They need to score the next goal."

Burnley have been the dominant force but Adam Lallana has a rare sighter for Liverpool, his low skidding shot is easy for Tom Heaton in the Clarets goal though.

Football League update

Derby, with only one win in their last five games in all competitions, double their lead to 2-0 away to Birmingham through Chris Martin's precise free-kick.

Reading lead by the same scoreline, with Glenn Murray getting his and his team's second away to Brighton.

It is still scoreless in the meeting of Middlesbrough and Nottingham Forest at the Riverside.

Another tasty foul and Steven Naismith is booked for a hefty challenge on Bojan. The Scot will sit out Everton's next game after racking up five yellow cards.

Crystal Palace have the chance for an equaliser as Yannick Bolasie is fouled in a promising position for a free-kick. Mile Jedinak takes it, but a slight deflection takes off some of the pace and Fraser Forster makes the save with relative ease. Moments later, Joe Ledley smashes one over for the hosts.

After his brace against Crystal Palace, City forward David Silva is having another stormer today. He is everywhere, linking up play and alternating with James Milner at the top of the pitch. City looking comfortable.

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Simone in Rotherham: Is there a better left wingback in the world than Ashley Young at the moment? Van Gaal sure knows how to get the best out of him in my opinion.

PA

All action stuff at OT - Ashley Young again whips in a fine ball which Radamel Falcao heads wide on the stretch.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Kenny Kong: Falcao's control to lay off the ball for Rooney to tap in was brilliant

Charlie Kemp: Flop of the season? Falcao has started a handful of games and has 2 goals and 3 assists.

Every time you look at the pitch at Goodison, there's a new man down. Stoke forward Marko Arnautovic is the latest to writhe in pain after Gareth Barry goes right on to his foot. That looked horrendous in slow motion but the Austrian is soon up and walking gingerly away

Hull look every bit the team that has struggled to score goals this season, they have not managed a single shot on target as yet with Sunderland comfortable and they have a chance for a second but Steven Fletcher fails to connect with Adam Johnson's cross.

Mark Lawrenson

BBC Radio 5 live

"Well done Radamel Falcao. He saw the ball coming across and he was always going to get a touch back, it was a great ball from Juan Mata and Wayne Rooney just had to pass the ball into the net.

"It's been a really open game, which is good for Newcastle but Manchester United have Rooney, Mata, Falcao and Robin van Persie. All they need is a yard."

Yet another injury at Goodison, this time it is Phil Jagielka, who takes a heavy accidental tumble, landing on Jon Walters as he makes his way to earth. He immediately asks for treatment but is eventually able to carry on.

A bearded Roy Keane looks on. Menacing.

Robbie Savage

BBC Final Score

"No idea why Brad Jones had to go off there for Liverpool. There might be an injury, we don't know, but as Jones went off there on the sideline, he just walked straight past Brendan Rodgers."

GOAL

Lovely counter-attack, Old Trafford has seen plenty of goals like this down the years! They break away, four on four. Juan Mata floats a pass over the top to Radamel Falcao, he is able to steer the ball back first time and arriving bang on time is Wayne Rooney, who does not make a habit of missing from eight yards. One nil.

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SUBSTITUTION

This is a blow for Swansea. Jefferson Montero, comfortably Swansea's best player in these opening stages, hobbles off with a possible hamstring injury after pulling up with no-one around him. On comes Wayne Routledge.

Football League updates

Wigan have lost their last four games and are still chasing their first win under Malky Mackay. Might this be the day? They have taken the lead through Liam Cooper's own goal at Elland Road.

Derby are 1-0 ahead away to Birmingham with on-loan Jordan Ibe after good work from Will Hughes.

Norwich have come out fast against Millwall with goals from Steven Whitaker and Cameron Jerome giving them a 2-0 lead.

At the top of League Two, Michael Smith has given Swindon a 1-0 lead away at Walsall, while a Paul Gallacher penalty has put Preston 1-0 up at home to Barnsley.

PA

An unsteady start for Simon Mignolet back between the sticks, his clearance clatters into Danny Ings and drops wide, before Ashley Barnes heads over. Burnley all over the men in yellow.

Manchester United look dangerous going forwards though. Ashley Yong's cross is headed wide by Robin van Persie.

Mark Lawrenson

BBC Radio 5 live

"Newcastle have broken away on three or four occasions and they have looked dangerous. They have diced with their defending but going forward they look sharp."

GREAT SAVE!

Leicester have been up against it early on but almost level through a snap shot by Leonardo Ulloa. His looping volley from 20 yards is well tipped over by goalkeeper Hugo Lloris.

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Tattz in Oldbury: I think people have judged Pochettino too harshly. He is still discovering how best to set this team up. Spurs haven't quite got the players to play a pressing game, so they seem to have settled on more of a fast-breaking/counter-attacking style. Be interesting to see who Spurs sign in January.

GREAT SAVE!

Where would Manchester United be without David De Gea? Another top class save to add to his 2014 collection, going full-length to deny Daryl Janmaat's stinging 25-yarder. Great hit from the Newcastle full-back.

Text us on 81111

Sam from Nottingham: Falcao looks half the player he did two years ago, could he be the flop of the season?

PENALTY APPEAL

Could have been a shout for Newcastle. Juan Mata runs across the back of Yoan Gouffran as the pair enter the area. Mata seems to clip the Frenchman's heels, and Gouffran hits the deck. But referee Mike Jones was having none of it.

Moments earlier, Falcao completely missed the ball when in space as a cross game in. Should have connected with it.

CLOSE!

Manchester City's slickers have done for West Brom so far - but the hosts do indeed go close. Saido Berahino gets in behind the defence but the angle is tight and he drags a shot across goal.

Conor McNamara

BBC commentator

On Twitter: Playing with a recognised striker is so 2014. Manchester City two-nil up already.

GOAL

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Just as Crystal Palace looked to be taking control, Southampton take the lead as Sadio Mane races through, rounds goalkeeper Julian Speroni and slots it into the empty net.

Southampton are back?

SUBSTITUTION

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Interesting. Very interesting. Simon Mignolet is back in the Liverpool goal, replacing Brad Jones. Injured? Ill? We're not 100% sure.

Kevin Kilbane

BBC Final Score

"What a signing Gylfi Sigurdsson's been in that swap deal with Ben Davies going the other way to Tottenham, but I think Brad Guzan should save that. It's gone to the other side from the wall, but it's not in the top corner."

HITS THE WOODWORK

Liverpool don't know how to deal with Danny Ings! They back away from the striker, who carries the ball to the edge of the box before side-footing a 20-yarder against the base of the post!

Bad news for Everton. John Stones is injured after a challenge with Glenn Whelan. The defender comes back on after receiving treatment but appears to be limping around.

GOAL

The weather may be miserable but Swansea have reason to cheer as Gylfi Sigurdsson curls a fine free-kick beyond the dive of Brad Guzan. A tad harsh on Villa, who had just started to get into the game.

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GOAL

Yaya Toure steps up and does not mess about - planted low and hard, into the corner. Ain't no stopping them now. City on the move.

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Cracking chance for Stoke and they really should score after finding themselves two-on-one. Bojan breaks and is tearing down on goal, he passes to Mame Diouf, who in turns tries to square the ball back to Bojan. Unnecessary. The pass is poor but the ball breaks back to him - however, his subsequent shot is comfortably saved.

Chance gone.

Football league update

In the Championship, Bournemouth have taken the lead against Fulham through Brett Pitman.

Brighton, under Nathan Jones after Sami Hyypia's resignation, have conceded inside the first minute against Reading. Glenn Murray put the visitors ahead after 39 seconds at the Amex Stadium.

Earlier today Brentford never really recovered after shipping three goals in the opening half hour of their meeting with Ipswich, succumbing 4-2 despite two late goals from Sam Saunders.

League Two leaders Wycombe Wanderers took an early lead at home to Luton with in-form Paris Cowan-Hall scoring his fifth in as many games, but have been pegged back though Jonathan Smith.

PENALTY to MAN CITY

Joleon Lescott cuts out a pass - then slides in and catches David Silva. Penalty.

Still rather tentative at Turf Moor, but livewire Danny Ings worries Liverpool with a skidding 20-yarder wide of the corner. Ings has been linked with a big money move next month. You can see shy.

Mark Lawrenson

BBC Radio 5 live

"In the technical area, Newcastle manager Alan Pardew looks like he has got a new pen for Christmas, it's very shiny. I can't see how Newcastle cannot expect not to concede today. They have given so much room to Manchester United early on."

Kevin Kilbane

BBC Final Score

"Ben Foster normally reliable, hasn't come out confidently to catch that and he's dropped it under the pressure of the conditions. One of his big players has let Alan Irvine down there."

Reuters

Both sides playing with three at the back at Old Trafford in an even game, Wayne Rooney again playing very deep in midfield.

Given the heavy rain over Swansea, sitting at home and filling up on left over turkey might have seemed a preferable option for those who ventured out to the Liberty Stadium today, but the hosts seem keen to reward those who have braved the weather with a strong start against Villa, Jefferson Montero not far off with a header.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Rachel T: Forget the weather bomb in the Midlands, a Harry Kane has just blitzed Leicester!

Richard: 2 in 2 minutes for Adam Johnson.

GOAL

He saveth, he taketh away - an instant clanger from Albion keeper Ben Foster hands Manchester City the lead! Foster drops a routine cross after a collision with his own defender, dropping the ball on a plate for Fernando to hook home his first goal for City.

Getty Images

GREAT SAVE!

City go close to the opener! Bacary Sagna teases in a low cross, David Silva gets something on it, James Milner arrives behind him but his shot is well saved by the feet of Ben Foster.

Ouch, ouch and ouch again. An accidental collision between Romelu Lukaku and Ryan Shawcross - both players looking at the ball before smashing heads - leads to a lengthy delay at Goodison. Shawcross comes off the worst - treatment is required but the defender is able to continue.

Pretty even start at Turf Moor. Danny Ings bulldozes through the Liverpool defence, to no avail, before Raheem Sterling drags a low shot wide at the other end. Applause all around the ground in the fifth minute for ex-Clarets defender Clarke Carlisle, who is in hospital.

HITS THE WOODWORK

Southampton, buoyed by their win against Everton last time out, are straight on the offensive and the woodwork comes to Crystal Palace's rescue as Toby Alderweireld's looping effort hits the bar. Good start by the visitors.

Mark Lawrenson

BBC Radio 5 live

"Newcastle can't get anywhere near Manchester United at the moment. They are sat so far back and giving them the complete run of the midfield. I can't believe the tactics that Alan Pardew is employing."

Kevin Kilbane

BBC Final Score

"I think Steve Bruce is under pressure and unfortunately, his own son has contributed to them going behind early. It's not going to help matters at all."

Getty Images

Wayne Rooney has an early header saved - but the offside flag was already up. Newcastle in the sort of grey kit that Sir Alex Ferguson would be changing at the break...

Early appeal for a penalty at Everton as Kevin Mirallas goes down after what might be described as close scrutiny from two Stoke players, Bojan among them. Referee Lee Mason is not interested.

Robbie Savage

BBC Final Score

"Wes Morgan is the captain and there he is on the back foot in the six-yard box and he is stretching for the ball as Harry Kane nips in. It's just Championship defending."

PA

GOAL

Reuters

He does not stop scoring! Harry Kane gets his 13th goal in 18 games after some more calamitous defending from Leicester. Nacer Chadli crosses from the left, Wes Morgan slips and Kane nips in to crash home left-footed from close range.

GOAL

AP

Disastrous start by Hull as Curtis Davies plays a terrible backpass which Adam Johnson pounces on, rounds the goalkeeper and fires into the empty net.

KICK-OFF

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We are under way in eight Premier League games.

As the weather hits, let's hope it brings the goals too. All set? Let's get festive...

Manager reaction

West Ham boss Sam Allardyce, speaking to Sky Sports: "Up to 2-0 yes [they were too good]. We did not do enough to affect them today because of the quality they have. I said if we were going to get anything against Chelsea you have to play your best but even then that might not be good enough.

"We created some very good chances late on and did not give up. The best part of our game came from when we went 2-0 down. I am not saying we deserved anything, Chelsea were the better team but when we carved out a few chances in the last 20 minutes, you stick one in and it can make things a bit nervous for them."

Football League updates

Championship: The fans at Griffin Park are certainly getting value for money today. Sam Saunders gets his second of the match but his Brentford side trail 4-2 at home against Ipswich Town.

That's the last goal of the game, too, and Ipswich secure the three points which has them top, for now.

John Roder

Match of the Day commentator

BBC Sport

On Twitter: The rain at the Liberty is getting worse for @SwansOfficial v @AVFCOfficial #scfc #avfc #bbcfootball @BBCMOTD

The bad weather has rolled in! Not snow, but definite sleet at The Hawthorns. Grim, grim scenes. You wouldn't be driving anywhere fast in that lot, put it that way...

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Boxing Day has not been historically kind to Liverpool under Brendan Rodgers, with the Reds having lost both previous fixtures since he was appointed.

However, Liverpool won both Premier League games against Burnley 4-0 in the Clarets only previous season in the Premier League.

Manager reaction

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho, speaking to Sky Sports: "We played a very good game against a very difficult opponent. When we scored we had the game always under control. In the last part of the game they had a fantastic action by Morgan Amalfitano, it was a little lucky for us but I am happy with the way we played against a very difficult defensive side. We coped very well with the direct football and dealt with a difficult player like Andy Carroll.

"The team is stable. The bench is good so when I bring players on they give me what the team needs at that time. I am really happy. We are doing very well."

Football League updates

Sam Saunders pulls a goal back for Brentford in their home game against Ipswich Town. He fires a right-footed shot into the top corner of the net after good work from team-mate Harlee Dean to make the score 3-1 to Ipswich.

However, any hopes of a Bees' fightback are immediately ended as defender Tommy Smith puts the Suffolk side 4-1 ahead, shooting low into the corner.

In the other Championship match, 10-man Charlton seem to have snatched a point in their home game against Cardiff as Johann Berg Gudmundsson's 87th-minute effort from outside the penalty area finds the net.

Player reaction

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Chelsea captain John Terry, speaking to Sky Sports: "I think the first half we were [in control]. We played some great football again but that second goal from Diego was important for us. I am delighted.

"We are playing well. Pressure is on [the teams below] now to win. We are playing great, everyone can see that and if we continue to do that it will be tough. That is the target for us, we have had a good start and if we continue our form it will be tough for anyone. It is important we remain calm and keep doing what we are doing."

With leaders Chelsea doing their job and stretching the gap over Manchester City to six points once more, can Manuel Pellegrini's men respond?

Robbie Savage

BBC Final Score

"I still think Chelsea will in the league by five-six points. They have strength in depth. Without Sergio Aguero, Manchester City look light."

Guy Mowbray

BBC Match of the Day commentator

"I just think Manchester United are going the right way. Why wouldn't manager Louis van Gaal say we are trying to win the title? They are a long way off but there are a lot of games left and see if they can. There are a lot of players left to come back from injury and a central defender in January, you never know!"

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live

On Manchester United's prospects this season: "I've seen Manchester United play four or five times this season under Louis van Gaal and they've disappointed me every time. I'm not sure of the job he's doing with the money that's been spent.

"The questions I ask are, have they played well? What's been the manner of their performance? That's when you can start judging what they might achieve or where they'll finish in the championship this season."

League One preview

No messing about with the times in League One. Twelve matches. Twelve 15:00 GMT starts.

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Gary Johnson, who spent four-and-a-half years in charge of Bristol City, returns to face his former team as his Yeovil side have an away game at the League One leaders.

If Bristol City drop points then MK Dons, Swindon or Preston could go top if they win their respective matches against Notts County, Walsall and Barnsley.

Rochdale boss Keith Hill signed a new deal with the club earlier in the week and his side, sixth in the table, travel to Scunthorpe. League Cup semi-finalists Sheffield United have only taken four points from their last five league matches and have an away game at Port Vale.

Manchester United striker Radamel Falcao ‏on Twitter: Boxing Day is today! Team united and stronger everyday

@Falcao

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live at Stamford Bridge

"Unfortunately, it was exactly how we thought it might be. Chelsea were excellent and West Ham were very well below what I thought they would be. West Ham will have better days this season though."

FULL-TIME

Chelsea get the job done. Merry Christmas for Mourinho.

Ramires for three! Total air shot...

A brace of late, late chances for West Ham but that does not tell the story of a very comfortable day's work all round for leaders Chelsea. Jose Mourinho's men will go six points clear.

STARTING NOW

BBC Final Score

You can keep across every goal as they go in from the 15:00 GMT games via Final Score, which is live on the BBC Red Button now and on BBC Two from 16:30, with key reaction on the show until 17:25.

And if you do miss all of the day's action, Match of the Day is on BBC One at 22:20 GMT.

Football League updates

Championship: Ipswich are still 3-0 ahead at Brentford, while Cardiff City remain 1-0 in front at Charlton. The Addicks are also down to 10 men and nearly equalised but Johann Berg Gudmundsson hit the post from a direct free-kick.

League Two: Good news for fans of League Two leaders Wycombe, who tweet that Gareth Ainsworth has signed a new contract to remain as the club's manager.

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live at Stamford Bridge

"That would've been quite a magnificent goal from Amalfitano there as it all started with some clever trickery on the ball from Song and a lovely jinking run in to the box."

HITS THE WOODWORK

The closest West Ham have come all day! Substitute Morgan Amalfitano beats the offside trap to meet a clipped ball back in, he gets a head to it and drifts the ball just wide.

Seconds later Amalfitano beats Gary Cahill, cuts inside and thumps a shot against the post!

Chelsea running down the clock now, Ramires and John Mikel Obi get some game time and a nice festive appearance bonus.

What are Manchester United doing in training?

Di Maria injured for Man Utd

Manchester United: MUTV have confirmed that Angel Di Maria picked up an injury in the team's last training session.

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live at Stamford Bridge

"It's been a case of not trying to repeat what I've been saying for the last 30 minutes. West Ham haven't kept the ball well enough when they've been in advanced positions and Chelsea have just been able to handle whatever they've had to face."

SUBSTITUTION

Diego Costa should be in for a third but after a great run and touch the ball gets away from him. Then more great play from Eden Hazard, weaving into the box and then seeing a shot blocked. Didier Drogba replaces Costa for the last few minutes.

Into the last 15 minutes now. Another home masterclass to be honest from Jose Mourinho's boys. Early start, easy win, home in time for Turner & Hooch. Textbook.

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Team news

@LFC

Liverpool are unchanged from the side that started the 2-2 draw with Arsenal on 21 December, with striker Mario Balotelli back on the bench after suspension alongside 17-year-old winger Sheyi Ojo, who is in the squad for the first time. Ojo joined Liverpool from MK Dons aged 14.

Burnley are also unchanged for the fourth successive game, with forward Sam Vokes on the bench after recovering from a cruciate knee ligament injury.

Burnley XI: Heaton, Trippier, Shackell, Keane, Mee; Arfield, Jones, Marney, Boyd; Barnes, Ings.

Liverpool XI: Jones, Toure, Skrtel, Sakho, Henderson, Lucas, Gerrard, Markovic, Coutinho, Lallana, Sterling.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Jay: Chelsea this season are like Barcelona were a few years back. Good for fans, boring for neutrals, terrible for haters

Team news

Crystal Palace make two changes from the side that lost 3-0 at Manchester City as Adrian Mariappa and Damien Delaney replace Martin Kelly and Brede Hangeland, who drop down to the bench.

Southampton bring back Morgan Schneiderlin and Florin Gardos after suspensions, while Sadio Mane also starts. However, Saints captain Jose Fonte is banned and misses the match against his former side. Shane Long and Harrison Reed, who started in the 3-0 win against Everton, are among the substitutes.

Crystal Palace XI: Speroni, Mariappa, Dann, Delaney, Ward, Jedinak, Puncheon, McArthur, Ledley, Bolasie, Campbell.

Southampton XI: Forster, Yoshida, Alderweireld, Gardos, Clyne, Schneiderlin, Ward-Prowse, S. Davis, Bertrand, Mane, Pelle

SUBSTITUTION

Stewart Downing floats a tame effort wide from 30 yards before he is replaced by Morgan Amalfitano. Chelsea lead the shot count 23-3.

Team news

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Everton boss Roberto Martinez brings Kevin Mirallas, James McCarthy and John Stones into the starting line-up in place of Sylvain Distin, Muhamed Besic and Samuel Eto'o following the 3-0 defeat at Southampton. McCarthy is fit again after a hamstring problem and Belgian winger Mirallas returns following an ankle injury.

Stoke manager Mark Hughes brings in Glenn Whelan for Phil Bardsley and is forced into a second change, with Peter Crouch only fit enough for the bench after a neck injury forced him off during Monday's 2-0 defeat to Chelsea. Mame Diouf starts.

Everton XI: Howard, Coleman, Jagielka, Stones, Baines, McCarthy, Barry, Barkley, Naismith, Mirallas, Lukaku.

Stoke City XI: Begovic, Cameron, Shawcross, Muniesa, Pieters, Whelan, Nzonzi, Walters, Bojan, Arnautovic, Diouf.

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live at Stamford Bridge

"As soon as that second goal went in, it drained the energy from West Ham, not that I think they really gave themselves much of a chance at 0-0. It's a weary display now from the visitors."

Team news

Getty Images

Sunderland defender Billy Jones returns from injury to make his first start since early October in place of Wes Brown. Ricky Alvarez comes in for the suspended Connor Wickham.

Hull City skipper Curtis Davies passes a fitness test to lead Steve Bruce's side. Maynor Figueroa and Tom Ince, both recalled from loan spells, are on the bench.

Sunderland XI: Pantilimon, Vergini, Coates, O'Shea, Jones; Cattermole; Johnson, Larsson, Gomez, Alvarez; Fletcher.

Hull City XI: McGregor; Chester, Bruce, Davies, Rosenior; Elmohamady Meyler, Quinn, Ramirez, Brady; Aluko.

Another lovely move from Chelsea, Eden Hazard in the thick of it and Diego Costa tees up Oscar beautifully. Oscar middles the shot but Winston Reid charges out to block.

Team news

West Brom make two changes from their 3-2 defeat by QPR last weekend, with Youssouf Mulumbu coming into midfield for Graham Dorrans, and Saido Berahino replacing Ideye Brown up front.

Stevan Jovetic is fit enough to make the bench but Manchester City start without a recognised striker, with midfielder James Milner again leading their attack as he did against Crystal Palace. Full-backs Bacary Sagna and Gael Clichy come into City's defence and Fernando returns in midfield.

West Brom XI: Foster; Wisdom, Lescott, McAuley, Pocognoli; Mulumbu, Gardner, Morrison, Varela, Sessegnon; Berahino.

Man City XI: Hart; Sagna, Mangala, Demichelis, Clichy; Fernando, Toure, Navas, Silva, Nasri; Milner.

Team news

Having made seven changes for last weekend's 1-0 win at Hull, Swansea City manager Garry Monk makes four alterations this time, with top-scorer Wilfried Bony the most notable player making his return. Gylfi Sigurdsson is also restored, as are Jefferson Montero and Angel Rangel.

With Alan Hutton and Tom Cleverley both back from suspension, Paul Lambert makes two changes to the Aston Villa team which drew 1-1 with Manchester United last weekend. Gabriel Agbonlahor starts after successfully appealing his dismissal in last weekend's draw against Manchester United.

Swansea XI: Fabianski; Rangel, Fernandez, Williams, Taylor; Ki, Shelvey, Dyer, SIgurdsson, Montero; Bony.

Aston Villa XI: Guzan; Hutton, Okore, Vlaar, Clark, Cissokho; Cleverley, Sanchez, Delph, Agbonlahor, Benteke.

CLOSE!

Cesc Fabregas curls narrowly wide from 20 yards. Chelsea had a 15-minute slump either side of the break but they are now back on full throttle.

Team news

Leicester City make two changes from the side who lost at West Ham last time out in the Premier League. Top scorer Leonardo Ulloa is recalled to the team along with fellow striker David Nugent, with Esteban Cambiasso and Jamie Vardy dropped to the bench.

Tottenham also make two changes from their last Premier League match, a 2-1 win at Burnley. Danny Rose comes in for Ben Davies while Benjamin Stambouli replaces Ryan Mason in midfield.

Leicester City XI: Hamer, Simpson, Wasilewski, Morgan, Konchesky, Drinkwater, King, Mahrez, Nugent, Schlupp, Ulloa.

Tottenham XI: Lloris; Walker, Fazio, Vertonghen, Rose; Bentaleb, Stambouli; Lamela, Eriksen, Chadli; Kane.

Team news

Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal replaces Darren Fletcher with Northern Irish teenager Paddy McNair as the Red Devils look to extend their excellent Boxing Day record by recording another Old Trafford win. Angel Di Maria is not even selected on the bench for the first Boxing Day fixture of Van Gaal's career.

Newcastle boss Alan Pardew gives a first Premier League start to 17-year-old local boy Adam Armstrong, who replaced Sammy Ameobi in the Magpies attack. With Cheick Tiote suspended, Vernon Anita is handed a recall as the Magpies look to recover from last Sunday's defeat to Sunderland.

Man Utd XI: De Gea, Jones, McNair, Evans, Valencia, Carrick, Rooney, Mata, Young, van Persie, Falcao.

Newcastle XI: Alnwick, Coloccini, Sissoko, Anita, Gouffran, Colback, Perez, Janmaat, Taylor, Armstrong, Dummett.

GREAT SAVE!

Top save! Oscar curls in a free-kick from 30 yards, it is heading right into the top corner until Adrian claws out a hand to tip it onto the bar. From the corner Nemanja Matic has another swing from close range but again Adrian is in the way.

Reuters

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live at Stamford Bridge

"It's starting to open up a little bit now after that second goal. If Diego Costa had scored that chance just there on his left foot, we could've just locked up and gone home."

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Capital R: Costa tricks 3 defenders to place it on his weaker foot to then score bang in the corner of the goal. quality goal!

Laith: Now that's how you take out 3 defenders! Costa is simply class!

Kuntal Majumdar: He is a beast. Beating 3 defenders and a keeper like that is out of this world. What a game he is having!!!

That was brilliant centre-forward play from Diego Costa. Jose Mourinho spoke at length last season about the need for 'a killer' striker who takes games away from people, and he has one now. A shinner though! Costa shins a volley wide after another flowing move.

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live at Stamford Bridge

"It just gets better and better. That's a marvellous individual goal from Diego Costa."

GOAL

That's the lead that Chelsea deserve, and it is brutal in its simplicity. Cheikhou Kouyate is stripped of the ball by Nemanja Matic, Eden Hazard plays it forwards early to Diego Costa, edge of the box. One body swerve wrongfoots three West Ham defenders, and his left-footed finish is hard, low and precise into the bottom corner.

Getty Images

Alex Song's first contribution is the sort of miscued crossfield pass to bring a smile of recognition to any Sunday League clogger. A horrorshow of a pass.

AFP/GETTY

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live at Stamford Bridge

"I'm not quite sure how much that double substitution will change things for West Ham. There's no system change, just a personnel change as Sakho is going to go and play up front where Carroll was."

SUBSTITUTION

A double change for West Ham, and maybe a change of tack.

Mark Noble and Andy Carroll off, Diafra Sakho and Alex Song on. West Ham are only one goal behind and could certainly rescue this.

YELLOW CARD

Winston Reid is booked for tripping the elusive Eden Hazard and what a chance! Cesc Fabregas floats in a quick free-kick, West Ham snoozing, and Diego Costa fluffs his connection. Poor.

AFP/GETTY

CLOSE!

Willian has been impressive this afternoon and he bends a free-kick narrowly over the top from 25 yards. Chelsea looking slightly more with it now.

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live at Stamford Bridge

"For all their strength in the air, I think Gary Cahill and John Terry are a tad susceptible to pace. If you get someone in and around them who can run at them with the ball at feet, they're a little suspect."

Reuters

GREAT SAVE!

After a collective seven-minute nap, Chelsea wake up. They drive through the middle of the West Ham side, Willian carrying the ball before freeing Eden Hazard on his left. Hazard steps on to his right foot, leans back and piledrives a shot from 25 yards which lifts West Ham keeper Adrian off his feet as he turns it over. Great hit!

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Mehul Mandalia: So it's now mandatory for Chelsea's 6ft plus defenders to dive? Mourinho's idea of 21st century football

West Ham starting the second period in a much more outgoing frame of mind, while Chelsea have retreated into their shells. It's only 1-0 - a dangerous game from the hosts?

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live at Stamford Bridge

"That's better already from West Ham with Enner Valencia showing some strength down the left-hand side. That's probably more ambition than they showed in all of the first half."

West Ham force an early corner through the perseverance of Enner Valencia and for once Thibaut Courtois is not pristine, missing the ball. There's a scramble and Chelsea get it away.

@Burnleyofficial

Burnley FC: A young fan shows support for Clarke Carlisle ahead of kick-off v Liverpool.

Former Clarets defender Clarke, 35, is in hospital after being hit by a lorry on Monday.

KICK-OFF

Back in play.

Here they come, the teams are back out at Stamford Bridge...

How to follow Boxing Day football

BBC Final Score

You can keep across every goal as they go in from the 15:00 GMT games via Final Score, which will be live on BBC Red Button from 14:30 and on BBC Two from 16:30, with key reaction on the show until 17:25.

And if you do miss all of the day's action, Match of the Day is on BBC One at 22:20 GMT.

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James at Stamford Bridge: Mourinho pointed out before the game how both teams had progressed, but West Ham are showing the same zero ambition they did here last season

Training on Christmas Day?

BBC

For the majority of us, Christmas Day will have been about eating as much food as is physically possible but spare a thought for the top-level multi-millionaire footballer, who will have had to reject that extra portion of Christmas pudding, if they were allowed any at all.

With a full programme of Premier League and Football League action this afternoon most, if not all, managers will have had their players training on Christmas Day,

Bolton manager Neil Lennon and BBC Sport's Mark Lawrenson discuss their approaches to the festive fixture list in this week's Focus Forum. Football Focus is back at 12:10 GMT on Saturday 27 December on BBC One, this website and Connected TV.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Ewan Harris: Stupid dive from Ivanovic, we're going to get a reputation

Lewis Kay: Obviously not a dive by Ivanovic, Chelsea are clean...

Alex d'Albertanson: Chelsea have by far outplayed us so far, but that dive from Ivanovic? Pathetic.

Football League updates

Championship: Charlton are a goal down and now a man down in their home game against Cardiff. The Welsh side lead through Tom Adeyemi's header, and the hosts have just had Callum Harriott sent off after he went over the top of the ball and caught Craig Noone in a horrible-looking challenge.

League Two: Matt Tubbs has put AFC Wimbledon 2-0 up in their away game at Portsmouth.

West Brom have won just one of their eight Premier league games played on Boxing Day (W1 D2 L5), but are unbeaten in their last three. Manchester City, meanwhile, have won five and lost just one of their last seven Boxing Day fixtures.

MOTD's Jonathan Pearce at The Hawthorns

"The West Brom players had Christmas Day afternoon off after training in the morning.

"The Doctor Who yuletide special might have helped them prepare. No doubt it was about beings from another planet and how simple earthlings combat them with some special help from the Doctor.

"From his Tardis-like Hawthorns office, Alan Irvine will need more than a sonic screwdriver to stop Manchester City who, at times recently, have looked worlds apart from most Premier League teams."

No team has scored the opening goal on more occasions this season in the Premier League than Swansea City (12). However, they have lost 33% of those games (4).

MOTD's John Roder at the Liberty Stadium

"Swansea beat Villa 4-1 at the Liberty in April, with a double from Wilfried Bony and a magnificent long-range strike from Jonjo Shelvey.

"Villa's Premier League record against the Welsh club is not good, a solitary victory in the last three seasons.

"So they will be glad that Gabby Agbonlahor, who scored in both matches between these sides during the 2013-14 campaign, was successful in appealing his dismissal in last weekend's draw against Manchester United."

Fiery fixture

There have been six red cards in six Premier League meetings between Sunderland and Hull, including five in the last three games alone.

MOTD's Martin Fisher at the Stadium of Light

"Steve Bruce will have happy memories of facing one of his former clubs last season. Hull City completed a hat-trick of victories over Sunderland, including an emphatic 3-0 success in the FA Cup.

"However, since that quarter-final triumph, the Tigers' form has been absolutely dreadful. They've mustered just four wins in 27 Premier League matches, losing a staggering 15 along the way.

"Only two of those wins have come this season, just one since the opening day, so it's no major surprise that they find themselves in the relegation zone and two points adrift of safety at Christmas."

MOTD's Guy Mowbray at Old Trafford

"There aren't many certainties in football, but Manchester United winning on Boxing Day comes close. The Red Devils have won their last ten games on 26 December, and in 22 years of the Premier League have lost just once.

"What were you doing on Boxing Day in 2002? Well, Louis van Gaal was nearing the end of his second spell in charge of Barcelona whilst Alan Pardew was carving out an impressive reputation in his first management job at Reading.

"Me? I was at the Riverside Stadium to see Middlesbrough beat Manchester United 3-1 with goals from Szilard Nemeth, Alen Boksic and Joseph-Desire Job. Those names don't half take you back."

Leicester last won a league match 97 days ago. Since that victory, Tottenham have claimed 20 points compared to Leicester's two (both from 12 games).

MOTD's John Motson at the King Power

"Leicester will spend Christmas at the bottom of the Premier League and history tells us that only twice have teams who filled that unwanted position at this time of year survived come the end of the campaign - West Brom a decade ago, and Sunderland 12 months ago.

"For me, if Leicester are to join that elite group, and not actually become marooned, they need some points over the Christmas period - but with their game against Tottenham followed by away trips to Hull and Liverpool, it's not an ideal programme."

Roberto Martinez has never been on the losing side as a coach against Stoke City (W3 D7 L0).

In contrast, Mark Hughes has won just two of his 16 Premier League games as a coach against his former club Everton.

MOTD's Alistair Mann at Goodison Park

"A year ago, fourth-placed Everton were above Chelsea on goal difference and just two behind leaders Liverpool as the Christmas festivities loomed.

"They'd lost only once in the league all season; a record only bettered across Europe by the likes of Bayern Munich and Roma. This time around, the Toffees have already tasted defeat on six occasions.

"Equally surprising is the number of goals they have been conceding. A year ago it was 16 in their first 17 league games, it's now 27. They have let in 14 at Goodison Park, the worst defensive home record in the division."

Southampton have won the last five league games against Crystal Palace without the Eagles finding the net. In fact, Palace have never beaten Southampton in the Premier League.

Tough task ahead for Neil Warnock's side?

MOTD's Dan O'Hagan at Selhurst Park

"You won't catch me at the Boxing Day sales, in fact I can think of few better places to be than watching Premier League football at Selhurst Park. Raucous and passionate, Palace fans create an atmosphere as good as at any ground in the country. Mind you, they've not quite had the home record to cheer this season that they managed last campaign.

"Palace would have fancied their chances against Ronald Koeman's Saints before Saturday. Southampton's win over Everton drew a line under a run of five successive defeats - four in the league, and a timid League Cup exit at Sheffield United.

"Away from St Mary's, Saints' approach hasn't exactly been to go marching in - something the goals for and against column bears out."

MOTD's Steve Bower at Turf Moor

"If you were compiling a Christmas report, it would make for better reading from a Burnley point of view than their Boxing Day opponents.

"Most had tipped the Clarets to be cut adrift at the bottom by now, while Liverpool certainly don't enter the festive fixtures in the position they expected to be in.

"Brendan Rodgers has rightly taken confidence from his team's last two performances against Bournemouth and Arsenal, but they are small steps."

On the evidence of the first half of the season, you could argue that Chelsea are a distance ahead of Manchester City - with a then huge, gaping chasm between the top two and the rest. Or do you disagree?

While you prepare your arguments, here's what's due at 15:00...

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Michal Koziol: Chelsea look like Barcelona during Guardiola's reign. Absolute domination.

Tim Whatmough: Nice game of attack v defence at Stamford Bridge. Surely just a question of how many Chelsea score?

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live at Stamford Bridge

"I'm looking at the West Ham fans and I don't see anyone clapping from their end as they've just been outplayed. It's no disgrace to come here and lose, but they've not had a shot on target yet or shown any intent."

Football League updates

A sensational half hour of football from Ipswich Town in the Championship. They are tearing Brentford apart. The Bees are third in the table, and are now 3-0 behind after only 30 minutes.

Former Bees winger Jay Tabb's cross is finished off by Paul Anderson, who scores the third from close range after two goals from Daryl Murphy.

HALF-TIME

Half time. Chelsea should be weighed and paid by now.

Getty Images

There is a huge gulf between these sides. The fact that there is only one goal will not please Jose Mourinho. Now then, is that a penalty? Branislav Ivanovic goes down inside the area - nothing given! Andy Carroll puts a hand across the defender but is furious with how easily the Serbian goes to ground.

No penalty, no booking...

AFP/GETTY

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live at Stamford Bridge

"I thought West Ham would show a willingness and a belief to get after Chelsea here, but Chelsea have just shown the difference between the top two and everyone else. If Chelsea do get pegged back in this game, they'll be kicking themselves for not taking advantage of the chances they've created so far, as it's only 1-0."

CLOSE!

He should score! Wonderful play from Chelsea as they keep the ball at will, backing nine West Ham players back into their own penalty area, so crowded, where's the space? Eden Hazard finds it, slipping one man before freeing Branislav Ivanovic on the overlap. He looks up, finds Diego Costa with the cutback but Costa slams over the top. Deserved better.

Football League latest

It is all going wrong for the hosts at Griffin Park. Brentford fall 2-0 behind inside the first 25 minutes in their home game against Ipswich Town.

Murphy scored inside the opening 20 seconds and has done so again on 21 minutes. Jonathan Parr hit a ball over the top, which Murphy raced on to, he got clear of the home defence, rounded goalkeeper David Button and slotted into the net. Mick McCarthy's side are going top of the league.

More good play from Diego Costa, too big and too strong for two defenders and then digging in a shot which deflects off the ankles of James Collins and spins just wide. More havoc from the corner too as Chelsea win two headers before Adrian claims a high ball. The camera cuts to a disconsolate Big Sam, rocking back in his seat, shoes on the seat in front of him.

"We were @$#* miles away from him!" he fumes under his breath.

The fans at Stamford Bridge share Steve Claridge's appreciation of Diego Costa, booming his name from the stands after he leaves one on Winston Reid.

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Ashley Williams: James Collins wrongly yellow carded then lost Terry for the goal. Bad few minutes for him

mwatekowa: Two goals in a Christmas week for Mr Chelsea JT he's surely having a Merry Christmas!

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live at Stamford Bridge

"You look at Diego Costa and you ask, where's the weakness? He's a target man, he holds the ball up well, he runs the channels, you're just in awe of him at times."

Getty Images

GREAT SAVE!

West Ham back away from the Chelsea midfield, Nemanja Matic is urged to shoot by the fans behind the goal and he does, a booming left-footed curler which is arcing toward the corner until Adrian gets a big hand to it to push away. Chelsea smell blood.

Calm before the storm

@LFC

Liverpool FC: The scene at Turf Moor, where Liverpool take on Burnley this afternoon.

Football League updates

Championship: Cardiff have taken the lead at Charlton, as Tom Adeyemi headed in after Ben Turner's flick on from a corner.

Ipswich Town are heading top, maybe for only two hours, as they lead at Brentford through Daryl Murphy's goal inside the opening 20 seconds. Mick McCarthy's side could have doubled their lead but Jay Tabb shot over the crossbar when well placed.

League Two: AFC Wimbledon are leading at Portsmouth through Frankie Sutherland's 35-yard effort.

YELLOW CARD

Jose Mourinho was asked about West Ham's strength at set-pieces before the game but they looked shoddy defending that one. Aaron Cresswell is booked from the restart after clattering Oscar. West Ham need to think of Plan B now.

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live at Stamford Bridge

"From a neutral perspective we needed that goal, as we didn't want West Ham just to come here and shut up shop. They can't do that now and hopefully we'll get a game. They need to show a bit more ambition, ask a few more questions and play a higher line."

Reuters

GOAL

It has been coming since kick-off. Chelsea win a corner after a wonderful one-touch attacking move, and then show the flip side to their coin with a tap-in from a corner. Cesc Fabregas curls in the set-piece, Diego Costa heads down and John Terry is clear two yards out to side-foot home.

AFP/GETTY

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Anon: Re Matt Barron: (see 15 minutes) Ronnie O'Sullivan doesn't make a 147 every frame. Rory Mcllroy doesn't shoot a 60 every round. Roger Federer doesn't win every tournament he enters. Jimmy Anderson doesn't take 20 wickets every match. Yet, after 15 minutes of a premier league game West Ham should be playing like Real Madrid. World gone mad.

YELLOW CARD

Diego Costa at full tilt, desperate tackle from James Collins brings him down. Collins confidently points at the ball as it rolls away but he gets booked all the same. Replays show that he did indeed get a touch on the yellow object before bringing down Costa. Unlucky.

Cesc Fabregas takes the free-kick but tamely straight at Adrian. Seconds later Willian forces Adrian into a save. Chelsea warming up?

Getty Images

Getty Images

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live at Stamford Bridge

"Not sure what to make of this West Ham performance so far. We've not seen a great deal of ambition so far and if Chelsea score, it'll be interesting to see how they respond. A slightly bit disappointing from them at the moment."

Jose Mourinho has done many great things in his Chelsea career but pairing Nemanja Matic and Cesc Fabregas together in midfield may well be in his top five. What a pair of signings.

Diego Costa wins a free-kick and Oscar flips it wide. Not at the races today so far, Oscar.

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live at Stamford Bridge

"Cesc Fabregas again helping out defensively. If it gets past Nemanja Matic, then Fabregas breaks his neck to get back and snuff out the danger for Chelsea."

Carl Jenkinson is being given the runaround by Eden Hazard, and his latest tactic is to wrestle with the Belgian as they chase a ball into the penalty area. It wasn't a penalty, but it wasn't exactly legal either. Tough afternoon on the cards for Jenks...

Championship latest

Early joy for Ipswich in the big game in the Championship, with Daryl Murphy giving Mick McCarthy's team a first-minute lead at fellow high-flyers Brentford with a left-footed strike.

Town top of the table as it stands.

GREAT SAVE!

There it nearly is! Cesc Fabregas works a short corner to find Gary Cahill on the edge of the box, the big centre-half cuts in on to his right foot and smashes in a rising drive which West Ham keeper Adrian does well to push out. That was fiercely struck!

West Ham force a corner, and then a free-kick but Enner Valencia's 30-yard effort is wildly ambitious and never looks like testing Thibaut Courtois. Chelsea have had 70% of possession so far. Like that box of After Eights on the sideboard, a Chelsea goal looks like a question of when, not if..

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Matt Barron: 15 minutes in and no sign of this apparent 'free flowing' football from West Ham

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live at Stamford Bridge

"That's the second opportunity Oscar has had in and around the box that he hasn't taken advantage of. Two bad touches at crucial times and he might not get another chance in the game."

PA

Another strange call as Gary Cahill gets away with a clear handball down by the manager's dugouts. I'm sure Sam Allardyce clocked that.

Chelsea break quickly and Oscar has another half sight of goal, but again his first touch is not the best. *Insert gag about too much Christmas Day food here*

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live at Stamford Bridge

"Carl Jenkinson once or twice has found himself with his positioning not quite right. I'm not quite sure he's aware of Eden Hazard once the ball goes over the top and it's something he needs to be wary of as the game goes on."

Bemusement at the Bridge. Lovely feet from Eden Hazard as he nutmegs Winston Reid on the edge of the area, the Kiwi's momentum takes him into Hazard, knocking him to the ground, but ref Michael Oliver waves play on. Hazard cannot believe that...

Andy Carroll gets a rare touch, but it's a heavy one and the ball runs away from him. In his eagerness to win it back he slides through Branislav Ivanovic in a heavy tackle. He has a long chat with referee Michael Oliver - but there's no card issued.

Reuters

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live at Stamford Bridge

"Chelsea keep working that ball around the edge of the area until someone gets a one-on-one. Terry stood a ball up well there to the far post, but Cahill couldn't quite get above the defender to guide it towards the top corner."

Willian has been lively on the right, he cuts it back to John Terry on the edge of the penalty area, he cleverly chips it up at the back post for central defensive partner Gary Cahill to attack - but is header drifts wide.

AFP/GETTY

Chelsea looking every inch league leaders in this opening exchange. Moving the ball sharply, running in behind the West Ham defence. If Big Sam's change of shape was designed to frustrate the Blues, it's not working so far.

Reuters

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Arlo in London: West Ham use to be all about grit but 'Creative' Sam has seen the light and now has them playing free-flowing, attractive football. Such a necessary development in my honest opinion.

Really bad miss from Chelsea's Oscar. He had to at least hit the target, eight yards out, enough time to gather himself.

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live at Stamford Bridge

"I'm not really sure how Oscar got in to that much space. It sat up for him after the first touch and he never really looked comfortably over it. Someone has let him run in to space there from the West Ham defence and he's just blazed it over."

CLOSE!

Eden Hazard is back with us. He'll run it off. Cesc Fabregas with the game's first moment of invention, offloading out of the tackle to spin it out wide to Willian. Willian crosses from the right, it's meant for Diego Costa but runs on for Oscar - whole goal to aim at on his left foot, and he blasts over the bar! Big chance.

AFP/GETTY

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live at Stamford Bridge

"4-3-3 or possibly 4-5-1 from West Ham which should see them match-up the numbers in midfield and that's the way to approach it against Chelsea."

Eden Hazard was an injury doubt for Chelsea and inside 90 seconds he's down again. He cuts inside Cheikhou Kouyate, clashes hip to hip and is in agony. He needs a good look at by the medical staff but looks like he'll be able to continue.

Andy Carroll is the lone man through the middle for West Ham in this new-look side, with Enner Valencia on the left and Stewart Downing out on the right. Stop the Chelsea full-backs at source?

KICK-OFF

West Ham kick us off. Merry Christmas one and all...

There was an interesting schism in the managers' viewpoints in those pre-match interviews. Big Sam effectively said he was resting players for the Arsenal game, while Jose names his strongest team every game. He only makes changes when they are enforced.

Hands have been shaken, pennants exchanged, and now we have a minutes's applause at Stamford Bridge - the day's action is upon us.

Getty Images

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live at Stamford Bridge

"Generally Chelsea cope with West Ham when they come here. Previously West Ham have hardly had a look in when they come here, but it's a fantastic game in prospect. How much ambition will West Ham show? But, they truly come here with lots of potential and I'm intrigued to see how they approach this game."

Big Sam's big changes

West Ham manager Sam Allardyce: "We have made a couple of changes as we play Arsenal in 48 hours and I am playing a different system today. Mark Noble is back, he's been a stalwart for us for many years so we have no worries there. We look forward to the game, there is no pressure on our players today, nobody expects us to get anything out of the game but we are full of confidence.

"We got a great draw here last year but the circumstances are different today. We have changed our system as we have to stop Chelsea, it's as simple as that.

"They can be one or two goals up before you know it so lets make them produce some genius to score against us. If world class players score great goals you can't argue with that. But hopefully today we will frustrate them."

Jose speaks

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho: "Let's go match by match, I am not thinking about what is in front of us. The team we have chosen is with this game in mind - this is the most important match, not the next one. Our opponents are in amazing form, it is a London derby but we have to try and win at home.

"I always say to the players that you can stop crosses into the box. Stop the balls from coming in. They are very physically strong and good in the air and surprise with new set-pieces. So let's try and be successful with that. But the more we have the ball and control the game, the less time they can cause problems at our end.

"West Ham are more than set-pieces. There is a clear revolution and they are a good side."

Teams in the tunnel, Kevin Nolan sharing some Boxing Day bantz with the officials - I don't know which team-mate he is referring to when he says ' just give me a shout if there's's any trouble - we know what he's like'.

But I can guess...

League Two preview

The standout game in League Two sees leaders Wycombe face third-placed Luton, while Shrewsbury could go top if those two teams draw and they win away at Oxford.

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Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink's Burton take on struggling Tranmere and bottom-of-the-table Hartlepool, without a win in nine league matches, travel to Mansfield.

Cheltenham are another side on a poor run, with three points from their last seven games and they face play-off hopefuls Exeter.

There are a few early games to look out for. Cambridge take on Southend and Portsmouth meet AFC Wimbledon at 13:00 GMT, before Dagenham and Redbridge play Stevenage at 14:00 GMT.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Mick in Sheffield: Re: 12.26 Non football fan here just preparing for the annual Boxing Day classic between Sheffield Steelers and Nottingham Panthers...9,000 expected at Sheffield Arena for an Ice Hockey extravaganza!

Christmas cheer for Hammers

Things are going pretty well for West Ham at the moment and it is unlikely a failure to beat Chelsea today will dampen their Christmas spirit.

They have not been in a higher position in the top-flight of English football on 25 December since 1985-86, when they were third in the old Division One, and have already won nine Premier League matches this season - just two less than they managed in the whole of last season.

First v fourth, title hopefuls v Champions League dreamers. It's time to get the day's action well and truly on!

AFP/GETTY

MOTD's Steve Wilson at Stamford Bridge

"In fourth place at Christmas, Sam Allardyce says his West Ham team are breaking barriers, and the timing couldn't be better - West Ham have begun the process of offering corporate packages in the Olympic Stadium where they will kick off the 2016-17 season.

"Not so long ago, this would have required a leap of faith from would-be purchasers wondering if they'd be watching Championship football in their plush padded seats; now it's not such a ludicrous stretch of the imagination to dream of Champions League games being digested along with the prawn sandwiches."

Championship preview

The game of the day in the Championship comes from Griffin Park as third-placed Brentford take on an Ipswich Town side that are second in the table. The match starts at 13:00 GMT and the winners will go top.

However, their spell at the summit will only last for two hours if current leaders Bournemouth beat Fulham in one of nine 15:00 GMT matches. That game will see Bournemouth midfielder Harry Arter go up against brother-in-law Scott Parker, who is in the Fulham side.

Getty Images

Elsewhere, managerless Brighton take on Reading, while we may well see the first appearance of ex-England striker Emile Heskey since his return to English football at Bolton's home game against Blackburn.

Fourth-placed Middlesbrough entertain Nottingham Forest, with other play-off hopefuls Watford and Norwich are at home to Wolves and Millwall respectively. The other 13:00 GMT kick-off is at Charlton, who meet Cardiff.

LINE-UPS

Chelsea: Courtois, Ivanovic, Cahill, Terry, Azpilicueta, Fabregas, Matic, Willian, Oscar, Hazard, Costa. Subs: Cech, Luis, Zouma, Ramires, Drogba, Mikel, Schurrle.

West Ham: Adrian, Jenkinson, Collins, Reid, Cresswell, Nolan, Noble, Kouyate, Downing, Carroll, Valencia. Subs: Jarvis, Sakho, O'Brien, Amalfitano, Jaaskelainen, Cole, Song.

Referee: Michael Oliver (Northumberland)

I've often wondered what non-football fans do with their Boxing Day, and this flood of tweets and texts has only got us more excited. We share your joy out there. What better way to enjoy the holidays than a League Two away day? I can't think of one.

As it is I'll get by on turkey sandwiches in the office with 10 Premier League games to keep tabs on. Kick-off in our curtain raiser just quarter of an hour away now...

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Andy in Oldham: Off to see Oldham for the last time before emigrating to Australia for the next 27 months. Come on Latics, give us a win! Since I was young...

Matthew and all the lads in Oxford: On the way to Oxford United v Shrewsbury Town. Come on you yellows!!!!! Super Danny Hylton will give us Christmas cheer!!

Getty Images

The crowds are flooding in at Stamford Bridge, with no signs of this forecasted snow attack just yet in west London. It's a thermals day for sure though. Wrap up warm out there.

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Will in London: Off to watch Leatherhead v VCD Athletic. Come on The Tanners.

Duncan in Birmingham: Off to the mighty blues at St Andrews this afternoon against Derby with dad and brother. Boxing Day is always the only day we manage to arrange to go! Can't wait!

Stat attack

Chelsea are unbeaten in their last nine Barclays Premier League games played on Boxing Day (W5 D4).

However, their last five Boxing Day matches have seen a total of just six goals scored, since their famous 4-4 draw with Aston Villa in 2007.

The Hammers have failed to score in four of the last five Premier League games against Chelsea.

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live at Stamford Bridge

On West Ham's team selection resting Diafro Sakho and Alex Song: "It's a balance you've got to get over Christmas. I look at West Ham's squad and it's a deep squad that can offer solutions in many different scenarios in games.

"I've done this game for years and never have West Ham come here and thought they can get something out of it. I've never seen that ambition before, so I'm full of optimism for them."

John Terry is the last man out for the warm-ups at Stamford Bridge and his team-mates form an involuntary guard of honour for the skipper. It's all fun and games for footballers isn't it?

Taking the wife to Morecambe on Boxing Day? A brave, brave man there...

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

the white feather: Taking the wife to watch the Shrimps against the Cumbrians.

MaximCalver: My grandad is emigrating so last NCFC game at Carrow Road for a long time with him.

Andrew: Off to see the mighty Worcester City v Hednesford Town. Hoping for a 'rabona' or two!

Off to a match today? Tell us about it via #bbcfootball on Twitter or 81111 on text.

It's been a while...

Getty Images

Trips to Stamford Bridge have rarely been profitable for West Ham. They last won there in the Premier League back in September 2002, beating Chelsea 3-2 but since then have lost six of eight visits, scoring just three goals.

There's no Paolo Di Canio up front for the Hammers this afternoon unfortunately - can Andy Carroll do the business for Big Sam again?

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Andy: Off to watch my cousin Ben Mee playing for the mighty Burnley against Liverpool!! Hoping for a clarets win and to get home before any snow sets in!

Finian, Peterborough: Off to Chesterfield for Peterborough vs Chesterfield with my uncle, on our annual trip- The only time we can go together!

Off to a match today? Tell us about it via #bbcfootball on Twitter or 81111 on text.

Afternoon all. I'd wager money that I was the only recipient of a Northampton Town FC pencil on Christmas Day in fact.

Bottom at Christmas - you go down. Top at Christmas - you win the league?

Leicester will hope that first saying does not come true, but first up this Boxing Day are a side hoping to prove the second one as gospel.

Can anyone stop Chelsea this season?

Time for Tom Rostance, the proud recipient of a Northampton pencil yesterday, to take the reins on this live text.

Chelsea v West Ham is looming, 45 minutes to go...

Team news

Forward Eden Hazard starts for Chelsea after recovering from injury while Oscar starts in midfield in place of John Obi Mikel. That is the only change from the Blues' win at Stoke last time out.

West Ham boss Sam Allardyce has left midfielder Alex Song and striker Diafra Sakho on the substitutes bench ahead of a busy festive season schedule, with Mark Noble and Enner Valencia brought in. James Collins replaces James Tomkins in defence to make three changes from the side who beat Leicester last time out.

Chelsea XI: Courtois; Ivanovic, Cahill, Terry (c), Azpilicueta; Fabregas, Matic; Willian, Oscar, Hazard; Diego Costa.

West Ham XI: Adrian, Jenkinson, Cresswell, Collins, Reid, Noble, Kouyate, Nolan (c), Downing, Carroll, Valencia

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@Karren_Brady

West Ham United vice chairman Karren Brady shares her pre-match meal at Stamford Bridge on Twitter: Steak and Eggs!

If that is a steak, it is from one small cow. It's smaller than a chicken embryo.

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Tim: I'm going to the big game of the day; Dorchester take on local rivals Weymouth in the Southern League Premier. Come on you Magpies!

From Joe, the happiest man on the M6: Girlfriend has just surprised me with two tickets for United v Newcastle at Old Trafford today. She wins at Christmas!

Off to a match today? Tell us about it via #bbcfootball on Twitter or 81111 on text.

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Jay Joe George: This year I got a Manchester United match day glasses case!

Off to a match today? Tell us about it via #bbcfootball on Twitter or 81111 on text.

BreakingBreaking team news

Eden Hazard starts for Chelsea after overcoming a knock picked up in the win of Stoke.

Chelsea XI: Courtois; Ivanovic, Cahill, Terry (c), Azpilicueta; Fabregas, Matic; Willian, Oscar, Hazard; Diego Costa.

Diafra Sakho and Alex Song are named on the bench for West Ham.

West Ham XI: Adrian, Jenkinson, Cresswell, Collins, Reid, Noble, Kouyate, Nolan (c), Downing, Carroll, Valencia

Full details to follow.

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George: A fan gave me a Crewe Alex shirt with my name on the back, I was a Crewe player at the time...

Steven Kipling: My Dad's ex girlfriend bought me a Chelsea top with my name on. I'm a Newcastle fan. No wonder she's now his ex.

Getty Images

What! No turkey!

And no time in pricey Chelsea for a humble burger or pie either. Sad times.

Getty Images

19th Century football no more?

"This is not the best league in the world, this is football from the 19th Century," said Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho of West Ham back in January.

"The only [other] thing I could bring was a Black and Decker [tool] to destroy the wall."

Leaving aside whether Mourinho was hoping for a multitool endorsement deal, he might be in for a surprise this afternoon.

West Ham appear to have transformed their playing style with fluid, attacking football having helped them to win nine of their 17 league games so far.

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Itachi Uchiha: They don't even fit on my ear

Twitter

Off to a match today? Tell us about it via #bbcfootball on Twitter or 81111 on text.

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QPR striker Charlie Austin on Twitter: Morning, hope everyone had a nice Xmas day now onto a great day of sport, #comeonurrrzzzz

19th century football

West Ham United on Twitter: The team coach (and horse) has arrived at @chelseafc for today's game #19thcenturyfootball

West Ham United

Punchy from the Hammers social media team.

After West Ham's 0-0 draw on their last league match away to Chelsea, Jose Mourinho accused the Hammers of playing "19th century football".

The Blues had 39 efforts on goal, while the visitors only managed one.

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Bryan in Southampton: In 1978 as a 7 year old lad I got an orange size 5 mitre football, and it snowed on Christmas day so my brother and I played football in the snow. A great memory.

Iain in Glasgow: My mate Devo bought me a Mezut Ozil air freshener for Christmas. I'm a Man United fan.

If you are wondering what to buy the millionaire footballer in your life for next Christmas, a surprising number of Chelsea's squad are still going with wired headphones.

I thought that they would all be early adopters of the new wireless models.

Your shoddy football-related Christmas presents are still coming in on #bbcfootball and 81111 on text.

And here come Chelsea.

Coach Steve Holland is first through the door, clutching the tactical flipchart.

Eden Hazard who limped out of the win over Stoke is among the Chelsea players. Whether he is here in a watching or playing capacity we have yet to find out.

Team news should be with us in about 30 minutes.

Sam Allardici is in the building.

The West Ham boss has strolled into Stamford Bridge and is looking bright and bushy-tailed.

Four wins out of five does that to a man.

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David Flood: The best for me, going up in my classroom. Work in a girls school so I fear it may not be appreciated...

Twitter

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East End boys and West End Schurrles

Getty Images

The first Premier League game of the day is at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea's programme for West Ham's visit pays tribute to those involved in the Christmas Day truce.

Vincent Kompany, Charlie Austin and Morgan Schneiderlin, are among the famous faces reading stanzas from Ian Macmillan's poem 'The Game: Christmas Day 1914', which captures the moment during the First World War when soldiers from both sides walked out into no-man's land on Christmas Day 1914 to play a football match.

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Mark Davies: I'm an English football fan. My mum got me a Scotland rugby shirt.

Nigel: In 1972, As a big leads fan I was not impressed when my aunt gave me a full Arsenal kit for Christmas

Off to a match today? Tell us about it via #bbcfootball on Twitter or 81111 on text.

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Matthew Robinson: My girlfriend's brother got me a 9-inch Gunnersaurus. He couldn't afford the 15-inch.

Twitter

Let's hear your best/worst via #bbcfootball on Twitter or 81111 on text.

Feel free to photograph the offending item for public shaming.

LFC

The Liverpool annual in 2012 had a bit of trouble with the spelling of one of the team's star players.

The following couple of years of writing press releases about Luis Suarez ensured the press team got plenty of practice in.

"I'm Scooby Doo, Paul Dickov is Yoda"

"I am one of the most hated footballers in the Premier League, and I am dressed as Scooby Doo.

"I am trying to get into a nightclub with my Blackburn Rovers team-mate Paul Dickov, who is in a Yoda costume. Looking back, it sounds ridiculous."

What is Robbie Savage talking about? Read his latest column to find out.

As we reach the end of the year, media organisations around the world will be churning out pre-recorded reviews of the year to fill airtime and buy a bit of time off.

We are not above that sort of thing.

But, I think spending two and a half minutes reliving Brazil's jaw-dropping 7-1 World Cup semi-final shellacking against Germany is time well spent.

I certainly can't give you anything better....

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Andy Walker: Gnomeanja Matic

Twitter

Off to a match today? Tell us about it via #bbcfootball on Twitter or 81111 on text.

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Christian Cordina: Boxing Day should be renamed Football Day.

Dan Rose: Christmas Day was good, but Boxing Day's football fixtures make this day great

Stuart Ingram: There is nothing like Boxing Day football to soothe the Christmas hangover!

Off to a match today? Tell us about it via #bbcfootball on Twitter or 81111 on text.

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Justin Engelbrecht: After 30 years of waiting, it finally arrived this Christmas

Twitter

Let's hear your best/worst via #bbcfootball on Twitter or 81111 on text.

Feel free to photograph the offending item for public shaming.

Boxing Day boost for Man Utd

Manchester United have won 17 of the last 18, been victorious in the last 10 in a row and won the last 10 on Boxing Day at Old Trafford.

Newcastle, meanwhile, have been away from home in nine of their last 11 Boxing Day Premier League matches and have lost six and won just one of those nine games.

More than 70,000 people were admitted to hospital on Christmas day 2012 including people burning themselves on the Christmas pudding and getting a toy from a cracker stuck in their ear.

Harry Arter must have been tempted to drop the gravy down the front of one of his Christmas Day guests.

The Bournemouth midfielder had Fulham anchorman and brother-in-law Scott Parker round for some turkey, a day before they meet on the pitch.

"It's going to be a surreal sort of game for both of us," Arter told BBC Radio Solent.

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Adam Benjamin: My mum got me a copy of Robbie Savage: Football Howlers a couple of years back. I regifted it the same day.

Michal Koziol: My uncle once brought me two scarfs from two different football clubs in his city. Both clubs hate each other sincerely.

LeighGruffyddSanders: My great aunt once bought me a knitted Spurs scarf...I am a Cardiff fan. Another one was a Ryan Giggs annual.

We want to hear your best/worst football-related presents via #bbcfootball on Twitter or 81111 on text.

Feel free to photograph the offending item for public shaming.

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Any football-related presents on Christmas Day? Some on the unusual or not what I'm really into anymore category? We'd love to hear about them.

From Andrew: Santa brought me the 'Match of the Day at 50' book yesterday morning. He knows me too well! One things for sure, Santa's beard is much more convincing than Gary Lineker's poor effort!

Let's hear your best/worst via #bbcfootball on Twitter or 81111 on text.

Feel free to photograph the offending item for public shaming.

Balotelli, firestarter, benchwarmer...

One of the other stories that you might not have seen yet, involves Brendan Rodgers, usually so chipper and cheery about his players, giving Mario Balotelli the cold shoulder.

"Being on the bench is something he will have to get used to," said Rodgers

"If the team needs him from the bench then it is something he will need to become adjusted to - that is the same for every single player, not just him."

Mario often seems happier on the bench anyway.

Boring James Milner?

Manchester City

Is James Milner a signing to get Liverpool fans excited? Or send them into a state of catatonia?

The Manchester City midfielder has, for a while now, been the subject of a parody Twitter account called Boring James Milner, providing a fictional but purposely mundane account of Milner's life.

Milner has happily poked a bit of fun at it and himself in a video via Manchester City in which he opens his Christmas presents which, predictably, are pretty boring.

It's amusing and certainly worth a watch.

Daily Star

The Daily Express back page screams Rodgers Raid for Milner - linking Liverpool with a move for the Manchester City midfielder in the summer when his contract is up at the Etihad.

Elsewhere the Star and the Times share a backpage lead, focusing on Jose Mourinho's kind words for Sam Allardyce.

Amid the knock-down tinsel and over-priced single pints, your local newsagent is also stocking some thin newspapers this morning.

The sport sections are probably the chunkiest bit of newsprint, and the transfer gossip mongering is also a year-round business...

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You know how it works.

A distant aunt knows you like football. The same distant aunt has to get you a Christmas present. She, understandably, doesn't want to go much over a tenner.

The result can be some unwearable, unwatchable, unreadable football-related gifts.

Let's hear your best/worst via #bbcfootball on Twitter or 81111 on text.

Feel free to photograph the offending item for public shaming.

How to follow Boxing Day football

BBC Radio 5 live

It's a Boxing Day bonanza of football and BBC Radio 5 live has all the key action covered.

Radio coverage gets under way at 12:00 GMT as Mark Pougatch brings you all the build up in 5 live Sport, before full match commentary as Chelsea host West Ham at 12:45.

Then, at 15:00 focus switches to Manchester United versus Newcastle with full commentary from Old Trafford, as well as updates on all the goals as they go in across the Premier League and Football League.

Finally, 5 live will be in London as Arsenal host QPR at 17:30.

All 92 Football League clubs in action across 46 games.

A bit like rats in London, you are never more than six feet from some football on Boxing Day. Ok, a bit further, but not a lot.

This is how the top-flight boys square off today. All kick-offs 15:00 GMT unless otherwise stated.

Chelsea v West Ham (12:45)

Burnley v Liverpool

Crystal Palace v Southampton

Everton v Stoke

Leicester v Tottenham

Man Utd v Newcastle

Sunderland v Hull

Swansea v Aston Villa

West Brom v Man City

Arsenal v QPR (17:30 GMT)

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Queen's speech bingo: "'Family', 'Commonwealth' and 'George', this card is a winner"

Fridge tetris: "It says 'keep refrigerated after opening', but it is more a guideline than a rule.."

Drunk dad buckaroo: "Put a mince pie on his head! Put a mince pie on his head!"

Christmas Day is all well and good, but for the best festive games, it is all about Boxing Day.