The Gunners head to West Ham tomorrow for their FA Cup third-round tie having dragged themselves right back into contention for the Barclays Premier League following five wins from the six games.

Another victory over struggling Bolton at Emirates Stadium on January 6, and Arsenal would move up to second place, and the deficit on leaders Chelsea down to just one point.

"Overall 2009 has been a positive year," said Wenger, set to rotate his squad for the cup tie at Upton Park.

"Let's continue to improve in the new year, and that is normal because we are a young team and should improve.

"This time last year we came out of a difficult period, so I am much more optimistic about the year ahead now than I was this time 12 months ago."

Wenger called on his side to maintain their consistency over the final five months of the campaign.

"I am very pleased with the last few weeks, because since the game against Chelsea we have caught many points back on them, so it is quite amazing," he said.

"That is why I believe in what I have been saying for a while, that it is just down to us now, down to our consistency and how much effort we can put into every game.

"Let's focus on our own performances because at the end of the season, our position will be determined by that and nothing else."

Captain Cesc Fabregas and fellow midfielder Denilson have, along with England forward Theo Walcott, been ruled out of the trip to Upton Park.

Alex Song is available before he heads off to the African Nations Cup with Cameroon, while veteran defender Mikael Silvestre and reserve goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski could both also feature as the Gunners boss keeps one eye on the Premier League campaign.

Silvestre, 32, has had to watch from the bench for most of the campaign.

While the former Manchester United defender admits it has been tough, he is ready to show his value again when called upon.

"Of course it is frustrating not to play, because that is what everyone wants to do at the end of the day," he said.

"But it is also part of the game to be ready for any opportunities so you have to look on the bright side - I am fit, I can play in different positions and I have also had the responsibility to lead the young side in the Carling Cup.

"I enjoy it and have been proud to do it - and let's see if my experience can help the team more in the second half of the season."

Silvestre joined Arsenal during August 2008, and would be open to extending his stay.

"We spoke earlier in the season and agreed that I would stay here until my contract finished at the end of the season at least," he said.

"I intend to keep my word, and we will see what happens next.

"Obviously I need to be playing, though, to still be happy."