Avram Grant will welcome Everton this evening with his West Ham United on a high but also ready to avoid coming unstuck against the refreshed Toffees.
Unlike the Hammers who won 3-1 at Fulham on Boxing Day, David Moyes' visitors have had eight days' rest since they claimed a 2-1 victory at high-flying Manchester City. Grant hoped the winning feeling would help his side get over the tiredness of playing twice in three days.
The manager will have to assess the fitness of his players, but can at least add Luis Boa Morte to his squad after suspension while Zavon Hines may also be back in the fold after missing the last two matches. Victor Obinna is also in contention after recovering from his badly bruised leg while Valon Behrami (hip) and Lars Jacobsen (heel) are getting closer.
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"We have to build on Fulham and continue to combine performances with points. Sometimes when you win it is better than a good training session for the preparation. I can promise that no one will feel tired against Everton."
The manager will hope Scott Parker avoids a yellow card tonight. Should this be the case the threat of a one-match ban for five cautions will be expunged by the time Wolverhampton Wanderers arrive on New Year's Day. Kieron Dyer (thigh) and Benni McCarthy (calf) are likely to be out while the fixture is the first of five at home in 19 days - with an away trip to Newcastle United in between on 5 January - emphasising the importance of the imminent opening of the transfer window.
"We are not thinking about anything but wanting to win," Grant added. "Everton are a good team and they were fantastic against Manchester City but we want to win. It is always better that you play against a team with equal preparation but I cannot change this situation. We have belief and know what we need to do to keep moving up."