Arsenal face Crystal Palace in the Premier League on New Years Day.

The Gunners could find themselves 12 points behind league leaders Chelsea at kick off. The Blues host Stoke at home on New Year’s Eve and can mount real pressure on their title rivals.

Kieran Gibbs is ruled out with a swollen knee and Theo Walcott is still recovering from a calf problem.

If Arsenal fail to pick up three points this weekend, most would agree it would put an end to their title hopes. Chelsea could be 12 points ahead of Arsene Wenger’s side who despite victory over West Brom Boxing Day have been struggling for fluency.

Adding to the list of players sidelined are four others at the Emirates. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Mathieu Debuchy, Santi Cazorla and Per Mertesacker are all out with long-term injuries.

Here’s our predicted Gunners line-up for the match…

AT THE BACK

Petr Cech in goal. The 34 year-old finally picked up a clean sheet on Boxing Day. His first since a 0-0 draw with Middlesborough on October 22.

Nacho Monreal comes in for the injured Gibbs. The Spaniard will hopefully be rejuvenated after being dropped against West Brom. Laurent Koscielny will probably continue to partner Gabriel for another game, though Mustafi is the ideal choice.

At right-back will be Hector Bellerin. Expect the youngster to trouble Martin Kelly all afternoon.

IN THE MIDDLE

Anticipate no changes in the middle. Francis Coquelin and Granit Xhaka are currently occupying the centre of the pitch, though we’re still waiting for their partnership to really blossom.

Despite notching up another assist against West Brom, Mesut Ozil’s performance was the subject of more criticism. The German was ridiculed for a lack of effort once again. He will under the watchful eye of Arsenal fans on New Year’s Day.

UP FRONT

Alex Iwobi will operate on the right. It’s the youngster’s time to shine with both Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Theo Walcott sidelined.

With Theo out, Alexis Sanchez will continue on the wing. His performance against West Brom from the left was just as influential as any other. Expect the Chilean to be a nuisance for the Palace rearguard.

Up top will be Olivier Giroud. The Frenchman has scored seven in his last five despite irregular game time. Giroud has been patient and get his chance to once again display his quality to Arsenal fans.