Sunderland face Arsenal test as both sides prepare for fourth-round Premier League meeting

Sunderland will look to upset reigning champions Arsenal when the two teams meet in the fourth round of the English championship. The Black Cats enter the match after an inconsistent start to the season and face a difficult task against an Arsenal side described as being in confident form.

Sunderland’s prospects are also affected by their unfavourable record against their London opponents. They will, however, aim to make home advantage count and produce a surprise result.

Sunderland team news

Sunderland will be without Senegal midfielder Habib Diarra, who is injured. There are no other major absences expected for the hosts.

Enzo Le Fee remains an important part of the side after scoring from the penalty spot last weekend. Brian Brobbey is expected to retain his place as the central striker, with Wilson Isidor likely to begin on the bench once again.

Sunderland’s probable XI

Goalkeeper: Robin Roefs

Defenders: Nordi Mukiele, Daniel Ballard, Kevin Danso, Reinildo

Midfielders: Granit Xhaka, Noah Sadiki, Nilson Angulo, Enzo Le Fee, Malick Fofana

Striker: Brian Brobbey

The match is Sunderland’s fourth-round fixture in the English championship, with the hosts facing the reigning champions in one of the most demanding tests of their early campaign.

Arsenal absences

Arsenal will be without William Saliba, Cristhian Mosquera and Jurrien Timber, who have not recovered sufficiently from their respective injuries.

The Gunners still have several key attacking options available. Martin Ødegaard and Kai Havertz have each scored two goals in the Premier League, while Bukayo Saka and Christos Tzolis are expected to provide additional threat in the forward areas.

Havertz is therefore expected to lead the line, with Ødegaard operating in midfield and Saka and Tzolis supporting the attack.

Arsenal’s probable XI

Goalkeeper: David Raya

Defenders: Gabriel, Ezri Konsa, Riccardo Calafiori, Ben White

Midfielders: Myles Lewis-Skelly, Declan Rice, Martin Ødegaard, Christos Tzolis, Bukayo Saka

Striker: Kai Havertz

The pre-match betting prices list Sunderland at 7.00 to win, with a draw rated at 4.30 and an Arsenal victory priced at 1.50.