Arsenal vs. QPR: Complete Preview, Live Stream, Start Time and More

Arsenal will look to continue their ascent toward the top of the English Premier League table as they welcome newcomer Queens Park Rangers to Ashburton Grove. Both teams will be looking to end 2011 on a high note by securing all three points in a New Year's Eve clash.

Aside from a couple hiccups, the Gunners have been in fine form for the better part of three months. The resurgence came after a slow start to the season that led many supporters to point the finger at manager Arsene Wenger. As you'd expect, the criticism has died down as of late.

It's been a rocky season for QPR, who returned to the Premiership for the first time in 15 years. They currently sit just outside of the relegation zone, but have actually had more success on the road than at home. Perhaps a trip to Emirates will serve them well.

Where: Emirates Stadium in London, England

When: Saturday, Dec. 31 at 10 a.m. ET

Watch: FoxSoccer.tv

Betting Odds: Arsenal -417, Queens Park Rangers +1090, Draw +443

Player to Watch for Arsenal: F Gervinho

Gervinho scored Arsenal's only goal in a 1-1 draw with Wolverhampton on Tuesday. It was his fourth goal in league play for the Gunners, which places him second on the team behind only the in-form Robin van Persie. He is also tied for the team lead in assists with five.

His presence alongside van Persie has been a major reason for the EPL's leading scorer's success. By helping to stretch the defense, it gives his forward partner a lot more room to operate. It's a contribution that doesn't show up on the stat sheet, but is important nevertheless.

Player to Watch for Queens Park Rangers: F Heidar Helguson

Helguson has been QPR's biggest offensive threat all season. He's totaled seven goals and two assists through 12 games, which is even more impressive when you consider his lack of help up top. Teams are focused on stopping him, and he still manages to produce.

It will be tough for him to put up another game-changing performance against Arsenal, though. The Gunners have really improved in the defensive third since the eight-goal debacle against Manchester United in August. But if QPR wants to earn at least a point, they need Helguson to lead the way.

Key Matchup: Gunners F Robin van Persie vs. QPR back line

Few players can claim to have been in a zone like van Persie has been this season. If a game goes by where he doesn't make a direct impact on the outcome, it's a shock. His numbers reflect that, with 16 goals and five assists on the campaign.

Slowing him down will be a tall task for QPR, who are giving up nearly two goals per game. The back line has had some solid outings, such as holding Chelsea scoreless, but have been shaky otherwise. They'll need to bring their 'A' game on Saturday.

What They're Saying

The Irish Examiner passed along some thoughts from Arsene Wenger, who lamented his team's draw with Wolves on Tuesday:

"

It was the kind of day where maybe we were not relaxed enough, maybe we wanted it so much, that we were a bit too in the 'wanting zone' and not enough in just the 'technical zone.' There are going to be a lot of twists and turns.

"

QPR boss Neil Warnock said the lack of leadership on his roster is one of the main reasons they haven't been more successful this season (via ESPNsoccernet):

"

I don't think we have enough leaders. That is one department I am looking to bring players in. You can get leaders on the pitch and you can see certain players [which make you envious].

We do have one or two here, but I probably have to look at using them a little more than I do. In the past it has always been a priority to check a player's character, but when you look at players at home and abroad it is impossible to do all your checks on every aspect of them. You go with your gut feeling really.

"

Prediction

Arsenal 2, Queens Park Rangers 0