Not being used- Old boxing day football

Right then, I don't know about you but I'm absolutely stuffed from today's feast of football, so it is time to bring an end to this live commentary. If you do find you have space for some extra treats though, head over to the BBC Sport football index for all the reaction to today's games.

Manager reaction

More from Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, speaking to Match of the Day: "It was a mistake from Giroud, simple as that. He stands up for it and admits he has done wrong. Rarely does he make the same error twice.

"Tomas Rosicky, I want to praise him for his quality and his attitude as I haven't given him many games of late. Alexis Sanchez has shown his ability to create chances and his commitment to the side, which has made such a difference for us this season."

Player reaction

More from Arsenal midfielder Tomas Rosicky, speaking to Match of the Day: "It was my first start of the season and I wanted to show the boss he can use me more. For every player it's difficult when you don't play for a while and then suddenly you get called up, but you have to be prepared to be called in to action at short notice, so I work incredibly hard in training. This is a special time of year for supporters, when the whole world is watching the Premier League. It's tough for us as players, but you have to embrace it."

BBC

As Arsene Wenger says, Arsenal have some ground to make up on the top three, with third-place Manchester United five points ahead and leaders Chelsea 15 points ahead. Today's win was all the more important, though, considering the Gunners head to fifth-place West Ham on Sunday.

Manager reaction

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, speaking to BT Sport about their prospects in the title race: "We find ourselves detached from the teams above us at the moment, with a bit of ground to make up, so we can't get too carried away with trying to make up that ground at the moment, just to concentrate on what we're doing."

Manager reaction

Getty Images

QPR manager Harry Redknapp, speaking to BT Sport: "Once they went down to 10 men, at 1-0 you've got to make sure you keep it tight. The one thing we didn't want to do is conceded another goal. To let the second goal in when we did was criminal. The opening goal was a poor goal as well, we fell asleep and let the fella come round the back and the penalty, we got away with as well. There was no need to go to ground then.

"They dominated possession, they were excellent at times, but once they got down to 10 men there was a great opportunity for us. We got into some great positions, but the final ball was not good enough. We played a different system, it's difficult, at the end of the day you can keep chopping and changing but it's about people making the right decision.

"I feel our passing was sloppy, we gave the ball away too often and when you give the ball away you invite attack after attack."

Manager reaction

PA

More from Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, speaking to BT Sport about the performance of Alexis Sanchez: "He is a guy full of confidence and playing with some real style.

"He worked tirelessly today in setting up one goal and scoring the other, so we can't be too harsh on him for missing a penalty."

Manager reaction

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, speaking to BT Sport: "From the moment of the sending off, we knew we were in a battle.

"It was was a deserved red card, Olivier didn't control himself. It completely changed the dynamic of the game, we were completely in control at that stage and it was quite comfortable.

"Olivier is a guy who, when he makes mistakes, he stands up and admits it."

Getty Images

Arsene Wenger gave Olivier Giroud an icy stare when the striker got sent off, but if he was still angry after the game he did pretty well to keep it hidden in his post-match interview. His full reaction coming up.

Player reaction

Arsenal midfielder Tomas Rosicky, speaking to BT Sport: "It was my first start of the season and I wanted to show the manager he could use me more. We dug deep and we won the game and it's a very important stage of the season, so we're pleased to have won."

Match of the Day

Right then, here is your Boxing Day Match of the Day running order: West Brom v Man City; Chelsea v West Ham, Man Utd v Newcastle, Arsenal v QPR, Sunderland v Hull, Leicester v Tottenham, Crystal Palace v Southampton, Burnley v Liverpool, Everton v Stoke, Swansea v Aston Villa.

Watch on BBC One at 23:00 GMT.

Player reaction

Getty Images

Arsenal midfielder Mathieu Flamini, speaking to BT Sport: "There was some great character today. We had to scrap it out a bit towards the end, so it's very pleasing to have come through a bit of a challenge there to get all three points."

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey on Twitter: A good way to end my birthday watching the lads get three points. Well done! Thanks for all the tweets and wishes today

The entertainers

Not a single goalless game in all 46 played in the top four English tiers today. Impressive.

Graham Taylor

BBC Radio 5 live at Emirates Stadium

"Going down to 10 men is not an easy thing, but in this respect, Arsenal did well. But, QPR were brought right back in to the game and it made for a far more exciting game than the first half was."

Football League update

Wolves have moved to within four points of the Championship's top six after Nouha Dicko's winner at Watford.

The visitors carved out a string of first-half chances, Watford goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes denied David Edwards and Kortney Hause with fine saves.

Watford went close to equalising in the closing stages, but substitute Odion Ighalo hit the bar.

BBC Radio 5 live

It's almost time for BBC 606 with Caroline Barker and Robbie Savage.

The lines are open for you to have your say on all the day's action by calling 0500 909 693, text 85058 or @bbc606 on social media.

Happy 600 wins day!

Arsenal/Twitter

A personal milestone for Arsene Wenger as he secures his 600th win as Arsenal boss.

One person who won't be getting any celebratory cake though is Olivier Giroud. His sending off almost proved costly as QPR pressed in the closing stages, but Arsenal held on.

FULL-TIME

Getty Images

That's it! Arsenal hold on to secure an important win as they move up to sixth.

...Niko Kranjcar sends the free-kick over the bar. Surely that is it?

YELLOW CARD

Francis Coquelin commits a foul 30 yards from goal and this is a last chance for QPR....

YELLOW CARD

Arsenal win a free-kick near the halfway line, with Niko Kranjcar getting a yellow card for a foul. A precious couple of seconds earned for Arsenal.

Graham Taylor

BBC Radio 5 live at Emirates Stadium

"What a waste there from QPR. They had Arsenal on the back foot and the cross was a complete waste from Junior Hoilett."

Four minutes of added time. Enough for QPR to find an equaliser?

Bobby Zamora screams for a penalty as he is challenged by Kieran Gibbs when trying to sweep home Junior Hoilett's cross from close range. Nothing given.

Graham Taylor

BBC Radio 5 live at Emirates Stadium

"That was close for Arsenal as for a second that header from Vargas looked in."

CLOSE!

Close for QPR as Niko Kranjcar drives in a corner and Eduardo Vargas flicks a header goalwards, but it is blocked on the line. All QPR.

SUBSTITUTION

Arsenal make a second change as Danny Welbeck makes way for Francis Coquelin, a regular from the bench in the closing stages of the last couple of games.

Calum Chambers is on to provide extra protection against Junior Hoilett, who is QPR's most dangerous player in these closing stages. Hoilett manages to get beyond Chambers but, fortunately for Arsenal, his cross is far too heavy and goes out for a goal kick.

Graham Taylor

BBC Radio 5 live at Emirates Stadium

"If this had stayed 11-a-side, it's fair to say this game would have been long decided in Arsenal's favour. That's what makes Giroud's actions even more baffling, why did he choose to do what he did?"

SUBSTITUTION

Arsene Wenger wants to shore things up as QPR press and on comes Calum Chambers for Tomas Rosicky. Can they hold on?

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Chris Fleming: Shocking decision. The ref is right there and Debuchy gets a touch for certain.

Ryan Mould: Not a penalty in the slightest - now lets see Arsenal's predictable collapse

John de Vliering: How could Martin Atkinson give that penalty???? Debuchy clearly got the ball.

We are into the final 10 minutes as Junior Hoilett runs at Mathieu Debuchy, but the Arsenal man has it under control this time, picking the ball off Hoilett and taking it out of the Arsenal area.

Graham Taylor

BBC Radio 5 live

Getty Images

"I have to say this. I look where the referee was for that foul from Debuchy and he has the best possible view from five or six yards away and he makes his decision almost immediately. It will certainly be interesting to see what effect that goal has on the game. Will QPR press on in belief they can find an equaliser?"

GOAL

Reuters

In the form he is in, Charlie Austin has to take the spot kick. He does, and he sends it straight down the middle and into the back of the net. The fightback is on!

PENALTY TO QPR

Getty Images

Chance for QPR to get back into the match as Junior Hoilett is caught by Matheiu Debuchy in the area, penalty...

Harry Redknapp wants a penalty as Bobby Zamora goes down under a challenge as he tries to get his head to Junior Hoilett's deep cross. Martin Atkinson is having none of it and Redknapp raises his arms in frustration.

Graham Taylor

BBC Radio 5 live at Emitrates Stadium

"Arsenal are so good at keeping possession that when you look out there at how this game is going, you wouldn't know they are down to 10 men."

SUBSTITUTION

With nothing to lose, QPR boss Harry Redknapp brings on Bobby Zamora for Jordon Mutch for the final 20 minutes of this game.

YELLOW CARD

Junior Hoilett is booked as he pulls down Mathieu Debuchy just outside the QPR area, Santi Cazorla can't make the most of the free-kick, though, as he fires over from 20 yards.

QPR were just starting to get into the game before Tomas Rosicky struck and, to their credit, they remain on the offensive despite that setback as Mauricio Isla wrong-foots his marker to wriggle into the area but a poor finish, and I mean really poor, lets him down as he effectively passes the ball to Wojciech Szczesny.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Jake Hevness: Losing a player doesn't matter, Arsenal only need one and that's Sanchez

Robert Whittaker: A walk in the park becomes a walk in the park

Graham Taylor

BBC Radio 5 live at Emirates Stadium

Getty Images

"Tomas Rosicky put it in so well and cleanly there, but you have to look at Alexis Sanchez. When he gets the ball, he wants to run in to space, he wants to beat people. When he picks it up, the crowd really feel something's going to happen."

GOAL

Getty Images

This will help settle Arsenal fans' nerves! Tomas Rosicky marks his first Premier League start since May with a composed finish. Alexis Sanchez was the creator, drawing in defenders before squeezing a pass to Rosicky on the right side of the area and he fires in low, with the ball helped into the net by a slight deflection.

SUBSTITUTION

QPR make a double change and it is not really a surprise to see Armand Traore make way as he is replaced by Junior Hoilett, while Leroy Fer comes on for Karl Henry.

Football League latest

Wolves have taken the lead at Vicarage Road against Watford in the late Championship game as Nouha Dicko nets his fifth goal of the season after a cross from Rajiv Van La Parra from the left wing.

Despite being a man down, Arsenal are in control and almost snatch a second when Santi Cazorla gets away down the left and passes to Kieran Gibbs, who flashes a cross low into the area, but Alexis Sanchez can't make the crucial connection.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Tom Sheen: No argument for what Giroud did but there's also no place for Onuoha throwing himself to the ground like that

Cliff B: Totally daft from Giroud. Wenger's face said it all. Pure hatred.

Ray King: Crazy by Giroud. But how weak was Onuoha flopping to the ground like that??

BBC Radio 5 live

Lines are now open for BBC 606 at full-time at Emirates Stadium from 19:30 with Caroline Barker and Robbie Savage.

Have your say on all the day's action by calling 0500 909 693, text 85058 or @bbc606 on social media.

Graham Taylor

BBC Radio 5 live

Getty Images

"Giroud just ran off there, didn't look at Arsene Wenger at all there as he went down the tunnel. He knew exactly what he had done there straightaway. You just have to ask, what has he done there?"

RED CARD FOR ARSENAL

Reuters

Madness from Olivier Giroud, who has just given QPR a boost by getting himself needlessly sent off.

He looked to have been pushed by Nedum Onuoha as he chased a ball towards the QPR area and clashed with Rob Green, but reacted angrily by appearing to headbutt Onuoha. Referee Martin Atkinson was right next to the incident and immediately showed him the red card.

Getty Images

Arsenal are in control, but it feels like they are just about doing the bare minimum. There's not much energy in this game from either side, and not much in the way of chances as a result.

Graham Taylor

BBC Radio 5 live at Emirates Stadium

"It will be interesting to see how this game goes from now. I would have loved to be a spy in both dressing rooms at half time, but especially the QPR one, as where do you go from here? You're already behind, so you need to do something to force a change in the momentum of the game."

Armand Traore had not started a game since early October before today. It shows. He gave away the penalty, was out of position for Arsenal's opener and has just given the ball away before clattering into Tomas Rosicky in an attempt to win it back. Set up for him to grab a late double?

KICK-OFF

Off we go with the second half. What will QPR's response be?

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Paul Moore: QPR look lifeless. 'Arry deserves better in twilight of career. Needs to go abroad. Start working on a cockney-dutch accent?

Merry Men of United

Manchester United goalkeeper David De Gea ‏on Twitter: A great victory at Old Trafford is the best way to enjoy a #BoxingDay. Thanks for your support!

Twitter

Manchester United striker Robin van Persie ‏on Twitter: Very important win today on Boxing Day vs Newcastle. Thanks all the people who came to the stadium & around the world who supported us!

Graham Taylor

BBC Radio 5 live at Emirates Stadium

"QPR will have to do what they do at home and really try and attack the opposition in the second half. But Arsenal are so good at keeping the ball at home and that's exactly what they've done so far. I'd like to see QPR pressing Arsenal a bit more when they have the ball. They're being a bit more cautious at the moment and standing off, but that isn't going to force the game."

Alexis Sanchez's 10th Premier League goal of the season marked a pretty significant milestone for the forward as he became the second fastest player to reach double figures in Arsenal's history, having done it in 17 league games.

The fastest? Ian Wright in 14 games. Arsenal fans will be happy if he can ultimately prove as much of a legendary player as Wright at the Gunners.

Football league latest

Goalless at half time at Vicarage Road. Wolves have had the better of the chances, but Watford holding on at the moment as they go for a fourth win in a row.

HALF-TIME

MOTD's Simon Brotherton at the Emirates

"Arsenal have been the superior of the two teams, despite the lack of chances at times. QPR are yet to test Szczesny in the Arsenal goal."

Graham Taylor

BBC Radio 5 live at Emirates Stadium

"Charlie Austin just hasn't had the supply so far up front for QPR. It's just been so one-sided."

QPR's biggest problem is they have left their main attacking threat, Charlie Austin, isolated. He is playing as a lone striker and is getting no service. Something Harry Redknapp will surely need to address for the second half.

Finally a chance for QPR as Steven Caulker heads wide after getting beyond Per Mertesacker. Never any danger for Wojciech Szczesny, though.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Miracle Roch: Sanchez you beautiful angel.

Wale ibraheem: Traore has been abysmal for QPR, he gave away a needless penalty and later turned spectator behind Sanchez. Terrible marking!

Kenneth: Thanks Sanchez!!! Nice goal. Keep it up

Graham Taylor

BBC Radio 5 live at Emirates Stadium

Reuters

"First class movement once again by Arsenal. When the ball came in from the cross, Sanchez finished it off so well at the far post, but he was completely unmarked. What QPR defenders are doing there, I have no idea."

GOAL

Getty Images

Finally the breakthrough and it had to be Alexis Sanchez, who makes amends for his earlier penalty miss. A terrible one to concede from QPR's point of view, though, as Kieran Gibbs crosses towards the far post where Sanchez, completely unmarked, is on hand to head in.

Graham Taylor

BBC Radio 5 live at Emirates Stadium

"I think Arsenal are capable of making the top four, but I'm not sure if they will. I think Man Utd, Chelsea and Man City will, so there's very much one place up for grabs."

Opta

QPR's defence is being put under a bit of pressure as Arsenal become a bit more adventurous, Olivier Giroud this time seeing a well-hit shot deflect behind.

The visitors have not offered any attacking threat and if Arsenal don't take three points from this it will surely be a hefty blow to their top four hopes. Got to win these sort of games.

Football league latest

Currently goalless at Vicarage Road in the late Championship game between Watford and Wolves. Watford goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes has made three smart saves to deny the visitors an opening goal.

Graham Taylor

BBC Radio 5 live at Emirates Stadium

"We've been playing for 25 minutes or so, but for all of the possession Arsenal have had, they've only had three shots at goal."

CLOSE!

...Olivier Giroud takes the free-kick, curling it over the wall but Rob Green has it covered and claws the ball out of the air.

YELLOW CARD

Rio Ferdinand gives away a free-kick on the edge of the QPR area and earns a booking as a result. A good opportunity for Arsenal this...

PENALTY APPEAL

QPR are a little lucky not to concede another penalty with Nedum Onuoha all over Danny Welbeck. As things look, a spot kick or a set piece would be the most likely to result in the opener with not much happening in open play.

QPR haven't managed a shot on goal while Arsenal are wasteful. Fair to say it is not a classic.

Manager reaction

PA

Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal: "I was very pleased because we dominated for 90 minutes.

"In the second half we are only thinking already of the game against Tottenham (on Sunday) because there were unnecessary losses of the ball. But overall I'm very pleased with the performance.

"We make progress in every game but we are also doing bad things in every game and we have to improve that.

"But I'm satisfied because we are dominating a lot of games, most of the games we have played this season we have dominated. We're not always winning but that is coming."

Graham Taylor

BBC Radio 5 live at Emirates Stadium

"Arsenal having so much of the ball, Per Mertesacker has found himself as far forward as the opposition penalty area. It will be interesting if he finds himself on the end of a cross."

Getty Images

QPR are defending well at the moment with Arsenal limited to just half chances despite dominating possession. Danny Welbeck chases another ball into the box but Mauricio Isla pulls off a smart tackle to put the ball behind for a corner, which is then headed away by Charlie Austin.

Manager reaction

Sunderland head coach Gus Poyet on links with Celtic defender Virgil van Dijk, and Liverpool forward Fabio Borini: "The idea is to add quality if it's possible in January, it's not about getting bodies in. Getting quality in is what matters."

(On van Dijk): "We were in talks with them (Celtic) from the past, but there's a certain amount of money you can have, so I think it's a bit too early. With Fabio Borini, it's difficult."

Graham Taylor

BBC Radio 5 live at Emirates Stadium

"When you do miss a penalty as Alexis Sanchez did, every time you then get the ball, you want to make an impression. I think Sanchez just needs to relax a little and it will happen for Arsenal."

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Chris Wright: What a horrendous penalty by Alexis Sanchez! Not one of his qualities!

John de Vliering: That was one of the worst penalties I've ever seen by Alexis Sanchez. Took it too lightly

Arsenal are seeing more of the ball as Tomas Rosicky clips a pass into the box and Alexis Sanchez tries to wriggle past Armand Traore to get to it, but the QPR defender, who gave away the penalty, is much more switched on this time and confidently hooks clear.

Manager reaction

Getty Images

Hull City manager Steve Bruce: "We could have buckled after conceding an early goal, but there were seven players out there who were the mainstay of the team when we got promoted, and they've showed great spirit. Our second half display was arguably as good as we've seen this season.

"It's always nice to come here and win, the stick I get maybe it's a little bit sweeter than if you get beat so it's a sweet Boxing Day.

"We're a newly promoted team that's been in the Premier League for 18 months. We've been blighted by a little bit of loss of a form and injuries. It's been difficult and it's still going to be difficult. Some of the injuries are long term but hopefully this result will give us a huge lift.

"We've got a huge game next up against Leicester who are up against it like us. I still believe we'll finish above where we did last year. Make no mistake we're a second season into this division, and we're playing teams who've been in the Premier League for years.

On his January transfer targets: "To be fair to the chairman since I walked through the door he's backed me but to be honest there's no one on the radar at present. If there's someone we think will make the difference then we'll ask the question."

Manager reaction

Stoke boss Mark Hughes on the match-winning penalty: "Bojan has done really, really well to get into the box and his back leg is clipped. Under those circumstances as a defender you've got to be really careful. It's a clear penalty."

On the Leighton Baines foul by Jon Walters: "I felt it was a clear foul and a yellow - and that was what was given. It was not a clear goal scoring opportunity with players running back and it was a little bit too far out."

On the Stoke game-plan: "It is not the first time - we've done the same at City and we won at Tottenham. Our away form is better than our home form. Last year maybe we didn't have the tools to be a threat on the road. Our home form will resolve itself and we'll pick up points there."

Graham Taylor

BBC Radio 5 live at Emirates Stadium

"Playing over the Christmas period is so special for supporters. I don't care what people say about a winter break at this time of year. You can have one, just don't have it over Christmas."

Steven Caulker strides across to snuff out an Arsenal attack as Danny Welbeck feeds a pass into the area for Olivier Giroud, but he is just beaten to the ball by Caulker.

Manager reaction

AP

West Brom manager Alan Irvine: "We started well but the first time City went up the pitch they got a goal which was down to our mistake. We continued to look as if we might score and we came very close on a few occasions.

"We still looked as if we were very much in the game but we made individual errors that when you make them in the Premier League are costly, and when you make them against Manchester City they are extremely costly."

Congratulations Neil Warnock for officially starting the January transfer window...

Text us on 81111

Liam in Nottingham: Remember the glory years with David Moyes Everton? Not laughing as hard as you were this time last year!

Manager reaction

Crystal Palace manager Neil Warnock said: "The three goals we conceded were very poor. We are renowned for keeping a good defensive record, but you can't defend like that. Southampton did not have to work hard for their goals.

"I can't fault the players' effort, but I imagine QPR will be rubbing their hands with glee if they have seen our defending. Without criticising individuals, we're disappointed with all of the three goals. We have had words behind the scenes.

"We have to defend better and we have to score goals. We missed Marouane Chamakh and hopefully we can get a couple of players in to give us more options. We're looking at a lot of players and we have made some offers, but it is just about trying to get those deals over the line."

Manager reaction

Everton manager Roberto Martinez on a booking for Jon Walters: "The red card isn't a debate, the referee sees the infringement and gives the free kick and a yellow card. I don't understand. The moment he gives the free-kick it has to be a red, Leighton Baines is running into central area in front of goal.

"The penalty for Stoke - you know what the striker is looking for. I don't think there's enough contact in that situation.

"It became a really difficult afternoon for us losing two very important players for us.

"Everything that could go against us, did. We reacted well to the disappointment at St Mary's . I didn't see this coming. This is now a pivotal moment in our season for us."

Graham Taylor

BBC Radio 5 live at Emirates Stadium

"I tell you how bad that was, I think I could have saved that. It was a poor, poor penalty."

MISSED PENALTY

Getty Images

Alexis Sanchez steps up for the penalty and it is uncharacteristically weak as he scuffs it towards Rob Green's left, it is an easy save for the QPR keeper.

PENALTY TO ARSENAL

Reuters

Alexis Sanchez is brought down by Armand Traore, cynically I might add, and Arsenal have a penalty...

Pretty quiet start to the game with neither side venturing too far from the halfway line when in possession, but Arsenal finally decide to have a little foray forward as Santi Cazorla tries his luck, but his shot is charged down.

Text us on 81111

Brooksy in Northampton: Worried about Arsenal today. Not enough in that starting 11 to challenge. Put that together with the fact that Tottenham keep winning, and it could a Lean, Lean New Year in many Gunners homes. Gloomy times in my informed opinion.

Manager reaction

PA

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers to BBC Sport: "We knew coming into the game this was going to be tough. Burnley work so hard, they're very well organised and they go from the first whistle to the last. Our football wasn't as fluent as it could have been but we've kept a clean sheet, won the game and it's a big three points for us.

"We defended well in the first half but didn't play well. We needed to show a bit more composure from behind. I brought Emre Can on and I thought he was outstanding.

"Brad Jones got a knock on his thigh and he felt it with his first kick and couldn't continue. Simon Mignolet came in and took a few good crosses. It's good for his confidence that he went on to keep a clean sheet.

"It's been well documented that we've not been at the level we'd like, but I feel we have been improving in the last few weeks."

Graham Taylor

BBC Radio 5 live at Emirates Stadium

Getty Images

"The very early stages show that with Arsenal in possession, they look very comfortable. I think this is an important game for Arsenal as they can make a real statement about their aim to make it in to the top four."

'We've run over the cat'

Leicester boss Nigel Pearson on BBC Sport: "I don't know where the black cat is and whether we have run it over but it is a particularly disappointing outcome because our performance was very good. We caused them a lot of problems but are falling short of seeing games through.

"That remains a big frustration and we need to change it very quickly. We have to continue to strive towards working as hard as we can to change that. The bottom line is at this level the quality is the defining factor. A lot of our play has been exceptionally good but we have not made the most of our own chances. The winning goal comes out of nothing and Ben Hamer would expect to save it.

"We will keep going. You can never submit to the negativity from external avenues. We have to make sure we remain positive of what we are capable of. We have to keep knocking until the door yields. At the moment we are finding life very tough because the margins are so tight. That is the harsh realities of the Premier League. To stay here we have to up our level and resilience and I have every faith in the players to do that."

You'd expect Alexis Sanchez to be at the heart of everything good Arsenal do today and he is straight in the thick of the action by bringing the ball under control on the right with a smart touch and crossing into the area, but QPR hack clear.

KICK-OFF

Arsenal have only lost one of their 17 previous Boxing Day Premier League matches, can they extend that impressive run today?

QPR get us up and running at Emirates Stadium.

Manager reaction

Getty Images

Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini on his side's 3-1 win after a second-half snowstorm at The Hawthorns: "I am very pleased with the performance. It was very difficult to play, especially in the second half. In the first 45 minutes, both teams could play and we did very well and scored three goals. In the second half, it was more difficult."

Manager reaction

Swansea manager Garry Monk: "It was a tough game. In the first half we played some lovely stuff, had an early goal and could have had one or two more. We showed great defensive qualities, and there was a great save from Lukasz Fabianski in the end.

"It was a great stop at a crucial point of the game. Overall, we defended very well. In these conditions today, some of our football was good. Gylfi practices most days with those free-kicks so it's no fluke. We had a couple of chances where we could have made it more comfortable - both teams dug in and tried to win the game and thankfully it was us. We're improving all the time. These types of results are good for the mentality. Ultimately, we have to be happy. Three points, a clean sheet, is very good."

There is a late game in the Championship too as Watford host Wolves. That kicks off at 17:30 GMT and we'll be keeping an eye on that, with updates here, as Watford look to strengthen their play-off hopes.

Football league late game

One more game to come in the Championship this evening at Vicarage Road where Watford have the chance to go above Brentford in to fifth place with a win against Wolves.

Watford striker Troy Deeney has passed a late fitness test and starts up front for the home side who have won their last three games.

Robbie Savage

BBC Final Score

"A great win for Swansea today, but I think Brad Guzan in the Villa goal can save the free-kick from Gylfi Sigurdsson. If he stays where he is on the line, he can get to it as the ball doesn't go in in the corner."

Manager reaction

Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino on Sky Sports: "I'm happy for the result. We started very well, scored early and had many chances to score. After 20 minutes we lost control of the game. It was an open game and Leicester played very well.

"Never in the Premier League is it easy. Leicester played very well. You can never relax in the Premier League. The level of our league is high and Leicester deserved more, because it didn't reflect their performance on the day."

Manager reaction

Burnley manager Sean Dyche to BBC Sport: "We got our pockets picked today. I wasn't happy [for Liverpool's goal] because there was a clear foul on Ashley Barnes that was not given. Liverpool get a goal kick that leads to a goal. These are the fine lines in the Premier League. We're delivering performances that show we're up for the challenge."

Manager reaction

Getty Images

Southampton manager Ronald Koeman said: "I'm very pleased and we were very solid. We scored some good goals and defended well.

"We dealt with the long balls and the direct, physical play of Crystal Palace and that was the key. We knew we had more quality but it would be a battle and a fight and we were well prepared for that."

Southampton play Chelsea at home on Sunday and Koeman added: "For everybody Chelsea are the biggest test. In my opinion they are the best team in the Premier League until now, but we believe in ourselves and it will be a great game."

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Faustino Asprilla: Everton fans complaining about Martinez? Try being a Newcastle fan with no signs of Mike Ashley or Pardew's departure. Dark days.

Rob Ward: Utter madness. Who are these Everton 'fans' calling for Martinez to be sacked? Too much Christmas sherry

Robbie Savage

BBC Final Score

"The attacking options Manchester United have got are endless. Rooney played in a slightly deeper position today and his passing and his runs gave them an added dimension. Going to Old Trafford at the moment is a very intimidating place to play."

Gunnersaurus is providing some Boxing Day cheer for wet fans as the rain falls at Emirates Stadium. The conditions are not quite as bad as we have seen in some of the other games this afternoon, but not pleasant for those in the stands.

Arsenal really need the three points today after their rivals won this afternoon, but they will need to be mindful of the ever-dangerous Charlie Austin. QPR can be off their game but if Austin gets half a chance, you'd fancy him to take it.

Football League updates

The late Championship game this evening is Watford against Wolves at Vicarage Road. Watford have won their last three games, Wolves have won only once in their last eight league games.

The form line suggest it is only going one way. But in the Championship, that sort of thing doesn't mean too much.

Kick-off is at 17:30 GMT.

BBC Radio 5 live

BBC

BBC Radio 5 live has full match commentary on the final Premier League fixture of the day. Listen via the Live Coverage tab at the top of this page.

Not much to choose between the two sides in terms of recent form. A tight fixture on the cards?

Jonathan Pearce

BBC Match of the Day commentator at The Hawthorns

"It was a magnificent Manchester City in the first half and it brought back memories of Spain in the sunshine playing with a false no. 9. David Silva did that job perfectly for them today. The snow came down in the second half and West Brom tightened it up, pulled a goal back, but by then City had taken Silva off. It was a mesmeric display of passing from them in the first half."

Kevin Kilbane

BBC Final Score

"They still created chances today West Brom, so that's something for Man City to work on, but it was a very attractive display from them."

Manager reaction

Getty Images

Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert: "We're very pleased with how we played. I thought we were fantastic throughout the game. I thought we passed the ball excellently and the goalkeeper kept them in the game. If you ask the lads in the dressing room, they want the games to come quickly because they're playing well.

"Christian Benteke had done everything, put the header across goal, but Lukasz Fabianski came up with a great save. The way we're playing is really pleasing. We've changed the way we've played over the last three to four weeks and the lads have been brilliant with it."

Does Paul know that Villa lost today?

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Oladayo: Martinez has his work cut out for this Everton team. They look a shadow of that team we saw last season

Aron Moore: Absolutely woeful all around. Tempo, threat, the ref, injuries, balance (again), attitude all bad

Andrew Bronte: Martinez has to go before relegation becomes realistic. Lukaku, Barry, Howard not good enough. Eto'o only ever bench!! Madness

Down at the bottom

BBC

Down at the bottom and today's losers are, well, today's losers.

Leicester, Burnley and Crystal Palace all lose at home and are in the relegation slots, while Hull get a huge win for boss Steve Bruce at former side Sunderland.

Top of the shops

BBC

Chelsea remain three points clear of Manchester City then after both sides picked up comfortable enough victories this afternoon. Manchester United and Southampton round out the top four but they are a long way back.

Football League updates

In League One, Bristol City survived a scare when Ben Nugent's late penalty put Yeovil within striking distance at 2-1 down three minutes from time at Ashton Gate.

They finish the day a point clear of MK Dons, Swindon and Preston, who chalked up wins over Notts County, Walsall and Barnsley respectively.

In League Two, Shrewsbury leapfrog over Wycombe and into top spot after their win away at Oxford and Wanderers draw at home to Luton.

Team news

Getty Images

Callum Chambers misses out for Arsenal so Nacho Monreal comes in to partner Per Mertersacker at centre-half, while Mathieu Debuchy shifts to right-back. Tomas Rosicky starts in place of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.

QPR recall centre-back Rio Ferdinand who replaces Richard Dunne in a three-man defence, while Maricio Isla comes in at right-back. Jordon Mutch and Nico Kranjcar play in the middle alongside Karl Henry.

Arsenal XI: Szczesny, Debuchy, Mertesacker, Monreal, Gibbs, Flamini, Cazorla, Rosicky, Alexis, Giroud, Welbeck.

QPR XI: Green, Isla, Onuoha, Ferdinand, Caulker, Traore, Mutch, Henry, Kranjcar, Vargas, Austin.

We've had torrential rain and heavy snow in some of this afternoon's fixtures, but the weather looks to be not too bad in London as we switch focus to Arsenal versus QPR, kicking off in just under 30 minutes.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Michael Louw: So many issues for Spurs. Defence awful. Midfield lose the ball too often and the forwards don't score enough. Chequebook time

FULL-TIME

Stoke have won it. Plenty of bad blood around the referee and rival players though. Everyone's got a view on that one.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Sarah Morgan: Perhaps now Liverpool have won with Simon Mignolet in goal his time as managerial scapegoat will be over.

Andy Knowles: Good away win for Man City! Tricky conditions in the second half so good to see it through. Keeps pressure on Chelsea

STILL PLAYING. Everton have a throw...

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Niall Hughes: Gareth Barry has been awful all season, must be a Roberto Martinez favourite! Giving away silly goals and missing sitters

Neil Knighton: No idea how Spurs won. Glad we nicked it, not the performance we needed before the Man Utd and Chelsea games though.

Alex Bolton: Need to start placing bets on Tottenham to win 2-1 each week

Stoke playing keepball down in the corner, Goodison all but empty...

Football League updates

Bournemouth keep marching on at the top of the Championship with Brett Pitman and Harry Arter's goals giving them a 2-0 win over Fulham.

Derby have thrown down the gauntlet though with a thumping 4-0 away win over Birmingham.

They are still playing though at the Amex where Inigo Calderon has just scored for the hosts to give Brighton 2-2 and parity against Reading.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Ahmer Murad: Away win. A desperately needed away win. Narrow, but 3 points for Liverpool. And a clean sheet. I'll take that.

Jay: So it's up to QPR to provide the upset of the day!

Doug Robinson: Spurs winning 2-1? Utterly unpredictable, that scoreline...

Still playing at Everton - where we had 10 minutes of stoppage-time at the end of the first half - and Steven Naismith has a chance! Played in by Samuel Eto'o, he just can't get a shot away under pressure from Erik Pieters.

Kevin Mirallas is then caught by Charlie Adam - the latest in a long line of bad tackles today. Adam stood on his Achilles.

FULL-TIME

GOAL

AP

Nikica Jelavic has only been on the pitch a matter of minutes but he wraps up a much-needed win for Hull as he rounds the goalkeeper and fires in with Sunderland pushing forward.

James Milner hands his shirt to the away fans at The Hawthorns. Does he know it's snowing? A great win for Manchester City though as they keep pace with leaders Chelsea. A two-horse race at the top.

FULL-TIME

FULL-TIME

Leicester must be kicking themselves as the full-time whistle goes. Tottenham take the victory, despite a strong second-half from Leicester.

FULL-TIME

Mark Lawrenson

BBC Radio 5 live

"Manchester United conceded such a sloppy penalty and goal, that would drive the manager mad. They had complete control of the game.

"It was just a comfortable win. They weren't good defensively in the first half but very good going forward. Wayne Rooney was the best player today. A deserved win. As for Newcastle, they were bright for 15-20 minutes going forward in the first half but inept defensively."

FULL-TIME

Reuters

FULL-TIME

Lukasz Fabianski produces a superb one-handed save to deny a Christian Benteke equaliser for Aston Villa. That could be crucial with seconds left.

FULL-TIME

If you can't win well, win ugly. Big away win for Liverpool.

Football League update

Extraordinary comeback by Rotherham who have scored in the 88th and 90th minutes through Jonson Clarke-Harris and Lee Frecklington to pull level at 2-2 at home to Huddersfield.

Malky Mackay is heading for his first victory as Wigan boss. James McClean has just added a second for the Latics away to Leeds. 2-0 there.

In League Two, Shrewsbury are heading top as it stands. They are 2-0 up away to Oxford while Wycombe are still being held by Luton.

FULL-TIME

No last-minute drama as Southampton take the points.

SIX minutes of injury time at Sunderland. Can the hosts snatch an equaliser?

INJURY TIME

Into THREE MINUTES of added time at Turf Moor. Can the Clarets grab it?

CLOSE!

Oh my word! How has Wes Morgan not equalised? The cross comes in, Hugo Lloris is nowhere and Morgan just has to poke into the empty goal but he connects poorly and Lloris gobbles up the loose ball as it dribbles goalwards.

That came after Leicester appealed for a penalty when Jan Vertonghen slid in on Jamie Vardy, but the referee was having none of it. Leicester are pushing in these final few minutes.

GOAL

Getty Images

A right old scramble in the snow! Joe Hart misses the ball from a corner, it hits the back of Bacary Sagna's head and then appears to go in off Brown Ideye. That could change though - it's very tricky to see who got the decisive touch...

YELLOW CARD

Not for the first time today Gareth Barry is late and leaves a mark on a midfield opponent. Barry is in the book now.

Football League update

Middlesbrough have got a deserved second to move 2-0 up on Nottingham Forest. Jelle Vossen with the goal, although the visitors have been hampered by Kelvin Wilson's dismissal. A little under 10 minutes to go.

GOAL

Reuters

What a penalty that is! Papiss Cisse opens up his body and sidefoots the ball right into the top corner. Brilliant strike.

GOAL

Getty Images

Well this game was fizzling towards its conclusion but there could yet be some late drama as Scott Dann pulls one back with a header. Can they?

PENALTY to Newcastle

Jack Colback bursts into the box and is tagged by Phil Jones.

Burnley just can't get up a head of steam. They do have Sam Vokes on the pitch though, his first appearance since March after a long spell out with a knee injury.

Where's the late drama?

Text us on 81111

Big Kev, at Old Trafford: Could see Newcastle's form taking a real nosedive now in my honest opinion. Nothing on show here today - could really go down if there's no money to spend in January. Very Envious of the riches on show for Man United today.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Tim Purcell: Cometh the snow, cometh Emile He-ski. He'snow joke you know

David Shaw: Another game where Paddy McNair has started for United and we have won

David Nugent has had little impact for Leicester and he is replaced by Jamie Vardy for the last 15 minutes. The striker quickly tries to make his mark when he finds space inside the area and has a go at goal, but his effort is easy pickings for Hugo Lloris, who makes the save at his near post.

Football League updates

Norwich are dishing out a hammering to Millwall at Carrow Road in the Championship. Gary Hooper has put the Canaries 5-0 up and there are still another 15 minutes to go.

Derby look like they are home and hosed against Birmingham with a jinking run and finish from Craig Forsyth giving them a 3-0 lead.

SUBSTITUTION

Still half an hour to go at Goodison though thanks to those first-half injuries. Bojan, the brightest man on the park for Stoke, comes off. Charlie Adam is on to add his not-inconsiderable tackling prowess to an already robust fixture.

The Spaniard had - so far - been the difference between the two sides and wasn't adhering to the typical 'foreign player in a cold British winter' cliche.

James McCarthy, just back from a long injury lay-off - and the man who brought down Bojan - then departs a minute later for Samuel Eto'o.

LAST 15 MINUTES

Quarter of an hour to go.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Matt Long: If the snow sticks will the refs use a different colour vanishing spray?

GREAT SAVE!

So close to a Newcastle consolation as Ayoze Perez mugs Darren Fletcher, drives into the box and David De Gea just about keeps the ball out at the base of his near post. Fine work once more.

Hull are still the better side in this half, with Sone Aluko particularly lively. He gets half a yard on the edge of the area and wraps his foot around the ball as he tries to find the top corner, but sends his effort high and wide.

CLOSE!

Great chance for Joleon Lescott against his old club - and he can't blame the pitch! He has a free header six yards out, but puts it over the bar. Frank Lampard is on for City, a 15-minute run out in atrocious conditions.

DISALLOWED GOAL

Very tidy finish from Rickie Lambert, steering home a cross from the left - but he was a yard offside.

Football League updates

In League One, Bristol City have gone 2-0 up on Yeovil through Jay-Emmanuel Thomas' cool penalty conversion.

Swindon are running away with it away to Walsall. Adam Williams has just scored his side's fourth and they are on the happy end of a 4-1 scoreline.

Great work by Gylfi Sigurdsson presents Ki Sung-yueng with the chance to add a second for Swansea, but he slices his effort wide. Still, the hosts look on target for three points.

Text us on 81111

Johnny from Bath: I knew Liverpool were daft to get rid of Emile Heskey in 2004 -they could do with him right now!

Tom in Sheffield: Heskey! Legend still, what a way to announce your return to British football!

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Steven Kinghan: There is snow way Mark Clattenberg will call this game off.

Getty Images

Without wishing to repeat myself, the snow is really becoming an issue now. You can only just see the lines and players are struggling to keep their feet. Where's the orange ball?!

CLOSE!

Asmir Begovic to the rescue, stopping a well-hit effort from Leighton Baines and ensuring Stoke remain in front.

It really was a low crisp strike across goal from the Everton man. The ball eventually goes out for a goal kick and Begovic takes his time with the restart.

Philippe Coutinho skips away from two tired challenges and his deflected shot hits the side-netting. Still anyone's at Turf Moor.

Kevin Kilbane

BBC Final Score

"Ben Hamer is trying to anticipate the cross there and is already coming of his line. Christian Eriksen has anticipated that, but it's still poor goalkeeping."

SUBSTITUTION

Michael Carrick and Radamel Falcao are given the last 25 minutes off. Job well and truly done at Old Trafford.

GOAL