The result of the Premier League encounter between Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal team and West Ham in the East End of London could prove crucial for both sides.

On Monday night, the Hammers won a crucial away game against Newcastle, and Julien Lopetegui informed the media that our footballing identity is that performance.

Compared to before the victory over the Toon, there is undoubtedly more optimism in the air at the London Stadium now.

Instead of being afraid, the Hammers players will now greet the Gunners at the London Stadium with confidence.

It will be all to play for come 17:30 on Saturday evening.

And with the Premier League’s formal announcement today, the Gunners supporters won’t be pleased at all.

Premier League announcement ahead of West Ham vs Arsenal

The upcoming Premier League clash is a vitally important one for both sides.

It’s official, Julen Lopetegui will not be in the dugout for Arsenal clash

And just before the huge London derby, a very intriguing statement was made.

Michael Salisbury will head up the VAR crew, while Anthony Taylor will officiate our match against the Gunners, according to the Premier League’s announcement today.

Taylor and the Gunners have a tumultuous history together.

In late October, he oversaw their match against Liverpool at the Emirates, and he made a dreadful choice.

When Jakub Kiwior jumped over Dominik Szoboszlai to head the ball towards goal instead of letting it play out in the second half, Taylor was called for a foul.

VAR couldn’t even step in when Arsenal scored, but the goal was disallowed because the 46-year-old had already blown up.

I think it makes sense that the Gunners supporters were furious.

Salisbury, who coincidentally served as VAR for the match between Arsenal and Liverpool, will return for this weekend’s match at London Stadium.

West Ham need another big result against Arsenal

I hope our decisions are more favourable than those of the guests.

In the 51 games that Taylor has refereed, the Gunners have only won 30 of them, and he has given them six red cards during that time (Transfermarkt).

In regards to the officials chosen for our games, we typically take the brunt of the criticism.

For once, it’s good to see Arsenal supporters twitching before the match against West Ham.

The Hammers players will be fired up for the match against the Gunners after their outstanding away performance against Newcastle on Monday night.

Arsenal won’t be thrilled to play us, especially in light of the Premier League’s announcement today.