Overview
- Kick-off is 15:00 GMT at the Emirates Stadium, with leaders Arsenal playing a day before Manchester City.
- Arsenal confirmed Mikel Merino is out long term after foot surgery, Bukayo Saka is unlikely to feature with a hip issue, and Jurrien Timber’s status is a late decision after mixed reports on his fitness.
- Sunderland drew 2-2 in the reverse fixture thanks to Brian Brobbey’s 94th-minute equaliser but have never won a Premier League game away to Arsenal.
- The visitors are unbeaten at home this season yet rank among the league’s poorest away sides, while Arsenal boast the division’s best defensive record and strong set-piece threat.
- Pundits Alan Shearer and Chris Sutton both predict an Arsenal win, with Sutton tipping another clean sheet for Arteta’s side.