Arsenal v Sunderland – preview

Wenger has always being his own man and continues to put faith in his current defenders despite wide spread calls to spend money on new defenders. Not long ago, Wenger resisted call’s from Arsenal fans to buy a new goalkeeper and instead threw Szczezny into the deep end. Wenger put his trust in the 21-year-old and the Pole now looks like a potential world-class goalkeeper. The Arsenal faithful can rest easy as it seems they’ve finally solved their goalkeeper predicament.

Predictions

I can see Arsenal sticking with their usual 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 system. This system works well for Arsenal, as it allows them to do what they do best – dominate possession. I can’t help but think that the three man midfield of Aaron Ramsey, Alex Song and Mikel Arteta will allow Arsenal to boss the game and Sunderland will be left chasing shadows for much of the game.

Leading the line will most likely be Van Persie, supported by Gervinho & Walcott on the wings. It’s unusual to see Robin injury-free after 7 consecutive games and it’s fair to say that if Arsenal are to get Champions League football next season, they need their skipper at his very best.

I fancy a punt on Van Persie to open the scoring this weekend.

Van Persie to be first goal-scorer is at 3/1

Another good bet for first goal-scorer is summer signing Gervinho. In the opening weekend of the Premier League, I felt Gervinho showed lovely touches and some great movement which was clearly overshadowed by his red card. Since then, his season has being somewhat stop start. Against Spurs, I felt he often made great runs & showed nice touches, but was let down by poor decision making.

I fancy the Ivorian to turn on the style in front of the home crowd and score against Sunderland.

Gervinho to be first goal-scorer is at 3/1

Sunderland’s attacking options look rather bleak and it looks as though Bruce will be forced to put his faith in 18-year-old Conor Wickham. Although the youngster was reportedly Sunderland’s most expensive summer signing, he’s failed to make any significant impact this season. There’s no doubt that Wickham has great potential, but I honestly feel it’s too soon for him to be thrown into the starting line-up against a top side like Arsenal.

I believe Sunderland’s main threat will come from Seb Larsson, who increasingly looks like a shrewd summer signing. The midfielder has started the season well on a personal level and will look to threaten Arsenal, especially from set pieces.

Seb Larsson to be anytime goal-scorer is at 5/1

Despite recent form, I can’t help but see an Arsenal win this weekend. Arsenal’s starting line-up looks very strong and I’m expecting to see a much improved performance in front of the home supporters.

Final Prediction: 2-0 Arsenal @ 9/2

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