With just one victory in their last 7 matches, Arsenal has got off to a start that they would not really be proud of. Even with issues of injuries Arsenal would be disappointed that they have not got off to a good start and have only themselves to blame. Only once in the eight matches played have they managed to keep a clean-sheet and that clearly indicates where their main problem has been in.
Arsenal was expected to easily cruise through the favorable set of fixtures starting last week against Hull City, but surprisingly, it took a last gasp effort to fetch a draw. Even against Anderlecht in the Champions League tie on Wednesday, Arsenal was rather unimpressive. As they role up to the Stadium Of Light on Saturday to face a humiliated Sunderland side that lost 8-0 to Southampton, Arsene Wenger and his boys would be hoping for a turnaround.
We take a look at the likely starting lineup that would face Sunderland
GOALKEEPER:
WOJCIECH SZCZESNY
Having missed the midweek Champions League match against Anderlecht due to suspension, the Polish shot-stopper is expected to return to the line-up on Saturday. Szczesny has been in good form this season and as the Arsenal defence still struggles to find its rhythm, Szczesny’s several timely saves have made sure that they are not extremely embarrassed. With fellow goalkeeper David Ospina out injured for almost 3 months, Szczesny just cannot afford to slip up now.
DEFENCE:
CALUM CHAMBERS, PER MERTASACKER, LAURENT KOSCIELNY, KIERAN GIBBS
Wenger would expect to see Laurent Koscielny fit in time for the match after he missed last week’s fixture against Hull and on Wednesday against Anderlecht. The Frenchman’s return would see Nacho Monreal make way and Koscielny’s arrival would give Arsenal some much needed stability at the back.
Per Mertasacker would continue alongside Koscielny at the heart of the defence. Mertasacker has looked really sloppy and slow this season- he was at fault both the times Hull scored against Arsenal last week- and would be hoping to turn things around.
Mathieu Debuchy’s prolonged absence would mean Calum Chambers would continue at right-back, while Kieran Gibbs looks set to keep his place at left-back. The pair combined to produce Arsenal’s first goal against Anderlecht and would be hoping to continue their good display at both ends of the ground.
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