John Motson
BBC Match of the Day commentator

"In any other season, especially given Sunderland's record at Arsenal, this would seem like a straightforward home win.

"But it's now three league games without a win for the stumbling Gunners, while the improving Black Cats are aiming to make it three wins in a row.

"Sam Allardyce will be especially pleased by Sunderland's recent defensive record - three clean sheets in five matches is a firm basis on which to launch a relegation fight.

"And it could be a good time for his side to face Arsenal, who have an injury crisis and a Champions League group decider on Wednesday. Arsene Wenger faces some tricky selection decisions but one thing is clear: the Gunners need to turn their form around - and fast."

With Alexis Sanchez and Santi Cazorla the latest men sidelined, Arsene Wenger will be relived to give Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain starting for the first time since October. Theo Walcott returns to the bench and Laurent Koscielny has shaken off a hip injury.

Image source, Opta

Without the injured Jermain Defoe, Sam Allardyce gives a second Premier League start to Duncan Watmore. Billy Jones is available after suspension, but doesn't get back in the side.

Image source, Opta

Which brings us to the Emirates, and the opportunity for Arsenal to get back on track, or for Sunderland to pull further away from the bottom three.

Incidentally, I can't think of a festive name for Arsene Wenger (though I've often thought he has a passing resemblance to the Grinch), so if you've got one, tweet #bbcfootball or text 81111.

Image source, PA

For Arsenal, advent comes on the back of a traditional dodgy November - there's been no league win in three games since October for the Gunners.

This Christmas, the red bit of north London is asking Arsene Wenger for a sustained title push and his physio elves for some fit players back from the treatment room. 

A big win against Olympiakos on Wednesday would be quite welcome too.

In the north east, Sunderland have already been delivered something of an early Christmas present. Back-to-back wins - and two clean sheets - have lifted the Black Cats out of the relegation zone.

Now, the Wearsiders are asking Big Samta Claus for a continued recovery that will see them avoid the drop.

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas - trees, decorations and advent calendars. Shops are starting to play Fairytale of Old New York on a continuous loop.

At opposite ends of the Premier League (and, indeed, the country), two sets of fans have very different Christmas wishes.

Image source, PA