Hurzeler made three changes and changed the system to a back three following the pre-Christmas 0-0 draw at home to Sunderland. Skipper Lewis Dunk returned from a one-match ban. Dunk’s normal centre-back partner, Jan Paul van Hecke, was restored after illness. Gomez, also ruled out against Sunderland through suspension, started on the left flank.

Preview the matchup between Arsenal FC and Brighton & Hove Albion with predictions, odds, over/under, betting lines and more.

Here are three standout Arsenal players from the 2-1 home win over Brighton. Rice has barely put a foot wrong since his arrival in 2023, but he is playing like a man possessed this season.

With Jurrien Timber out, Declan Rice filled in at right-back and it was from his whipped-in corner that Georginio Rutter scored an own goal. Despite Arsenal’s dominance, they conceded late on when Diego Gomez was first to react to a rebound. They needed a world-class save from David Raya to secure victory.

Dealt an injury blow right before the game was due to begin, it could have been a tricky afternoon for Mikel Arteta’s Gunners. But they took it in their stride and dominated for more than half the game, ultimately surviving Brighton’s attempt at a fightback.

Martin Odegaard's first goal of the season helped a fortuitous Arsenal side secure a nervy 2-1 win over Brighton to stay top of the Premier League table. The Gunners captain lashed in a superb effort early on before a Georginio Rutter own goal looked to set them on their way.

After a dominant first half it took a stunning save from David Raya to preserve the win and return Arsenal to the top of the Premier League

The Gunners guaranteed top spot at Christmas with their hard-fought victory over Everton and currently hold a two-point lead over their nearest challengers Manchester City. With Pep Guardiola’s men in exceptional form and Aston Villa firmly in the title picture, complacency can’t be accepted against Brighton.

Things are turning uglier by the week for West Ham. They are in a real relegation battle now, and their boss Nuno Espirito Santo is absolutely desperate for a win, but it is hard to see where it will come from.