Sunderland sit in the Champions League places in the Premier League after 10 games, and look to cause the upset of the season, hosting Arsenal at the Stadium of Light.
Squad Updates
Unfortunately for Sunderland, signing of the season contender Omar Alderete has suffered a setback in his concussion recovery and will miss the Arsenal fixture. However, Regis Le Bris labels it as ‘not serious’.
Le Bris also updated the media on the long-term injury of club record signing Habib Diarra, saying ‘he is in a good place’ and the club ‘won’t rush the process because he is still young and it was a significant injury‘. The Senegalese midfielder suffered a significant hamstring injury in training back in September.
Lineup Prediction
I predict an unchanged Starting XI from the draw with Everton, featuring the 5-back formation that has worked well for Sunderland since being brought in against Chelsea, and is well-suited for a ‘smaller’ club against a title favourite.
Match Prediction
Sunderland will stand tall at home, but Arsenal have yet to concede in the past month, and I struggle to see that changing here. I predict a 2-0 Arsenal win.
