Sunderland v Arsenal preview

The Gunners' last six league defeats have been by a one-goal margin

Last updated: 3rd October 2008   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Sunderland v Arsenal preview

Keane: Gunners encounter

Skysports.com prediction: Sunderland 1 Arsenal 2

Sky Bet odds: Sunderland 11/2, Draw 12/5, Arsenal 8/13

One to Watch: Theo Walcott

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Sunderland take on an Arsenal side that must prove their title credentials for a second time already this season.

The Gunners slumped to their second surprise Premier League loss of the new campaign last weekend, as top flight new boys Hull City took advantage of an off-colour home performance.

Arsene Wenger's charges responded against an unimpressive Porto side in the UEFA Champions League during midweek, but are likely to face a sterner test versus the Black Cats.

The North East outfit are seeking their third win of the term and manager Roy Keane is set to ensure his players are on their toes for an Arsenal league backlash.

Sunderland, currently 13th in the table, could well look to capitalise on the visitors' fragility from set-pieces after three of the four goals their opponents have conceded this campaign have come from corners.

Arsenal claimed three points in last season's corresponding fixture as England international Theo Walcott struck the only goal of the game, and Keane's troops will be wary of the teenager's pace once more.

Sunderland midfielder Liam Miller faces a late fitness test ahead of the encounter, while Teemu Tainio (shoulder) Phil Bardsley (ankle/foot) and Grant Leadbitter (concussion) all remain on the sidelines.

Defender Nyron Nosworthy and striker Kenwyne Jones are both still absent but are nearing comebacks from their respective hamstring and knee injuries.

Wenger has no fresh injury concerns to contend with, and is boosted by the return of Alexandre Song, who could start in the centre of midfield if the French coach plans to implement added muscle to XI.

Abou Diaby remains sidelined with a thigh problem but should be at the manager's disposal after the forthcoming international break, while Eduardo (broken leg), Amaury Bischoff (groin) and Tomas Rosicky (hamstring) are all long-term absentees.

Possible starting XIs

Sunderland: Gordon, McCartney, Collins, Ferdinand, Chimbonda, Richardson, Miller, Whitehead, Malbranque, Cisse, Diouf.

Arsenal: Almunia, Sagna, Toure, Gallas, Clichy, Walcott, Song, Fabregas, Nasri, Van Persie, Adebayor.