Arsenal had a tough week after losing 2-0 to Bayern Munich in Wednesday's Champions League clash and a victory in the upcoming home game is more than a must. A success in this game will keep the Gunners in the fight for first place and return the confidence of the team before heading into a tough series of matches - against Everton, Bayern Munich, Tottenham, Chelsea and Manchester City in just a month's time.
For Sunderland this match is equally important and will they definitely seek their chances. The team is in a dangerous battle for relegation, taking 18. place in the league but with a game in hand. Despite a 0-2 home defeat by Hull City in the last round, the guests are in good shape, achieving 10 points in their last 5 games.
Arsenal have lost just once in the last 20 games against Sunderland in the Premier League, conceding only one goal in the last 5 meetings between the two teams. Traditional squad problems continue with the miss of of Abou Diaby, Theo Walcott, Aaron Ramsey, Kim Källström, Thomas Vermaelen and Kieran Gibbs doubtful but Arsene Wenger has proved that he can always build up his team.