Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti says their clash with Arsenal is a must-win game.
Chelsea aim to cut the gap on Manchester United, which could be six points by Monday's game.
"Manchester United are having fantastic results because they've not lost, they're continuously getting results. We don't want that gap to widen. So it's important to win this game."
Ancelotti had a relaxed air about him ahead of a visit to Italy to see his family but is angry about the scheduling over the next few days, which sees Chelsea host Bolton two days after the Arsenal game, with Owen Coyle's side having an extra day to prepare after their Boxing Day clash with West Bromwich.
"We'll have two days, compared to Bolton who, unfortunately, play on the 26th. We play on the 27th. That's not a good thing, to have one day less to recover."
