Three things to watch out for in Arsenal v Sunderland

Arsenal and Sunderland enter the match this afternoon with two very different agendas. Although both sides could well do with a point, the visitors will be desperate for the point to keep their survival hopes alive. The gunners on the other hand will be looking for all three in the hopes of reclaiming second place from City. Arsenal sit third, five points behind City but with a game in hand. A win today and on Sunday against West Brom coupled with a City loss on Sunday against Southampton would mean Arsenal finish runners up for the first time since 2005.

It could prove a telling match after all. Sunderland are expected to give it quite a go in front a packed Emirates Stadium. Click on the lads down below to view three things to watch out for in Arsenal vs Sunderland.

Rotation

Wenger would do well to freshen up the side, and judging by the amount of fatigue and tired legs, he really has very little choice. The boss has employed the same lineup for the past seven matches and pretty much the same lineup for the past three months. The legs are far more jaded now than they were against United, and I expect several changes. Santi Cazorla has the most appearances of any Arsenal player this season and looked fatigued against United. Look out for Wilshere of Rosicky to take his spot, or possibly even Chambers. Gibbs and Gabriel will most likely play as well, as Koscielny is reportedly suffering from a bout of flu.

Walcott could make his 300th appearance if he plays today, and he just may get that opportunity from the start, seeing as how Giroud has looked jaded lately and Welbeck and Chamberlain have yet to return.

Gabriel returns

Speaking of rotation, Gabriel is expected to replace Koscielny alongside Mertesacker, and we should get another glimpse of our man in action. Gooners have been crying out for more Gabriel sightings, and we may get our wish today. He will be raring to go, having missed quite a bit of football lately, and will relish this chance I’m sure.

I expect a strong performance from our Samba boy today. He will have plenty to do against a Sunderland side desperate to take something from the match.

Giroud to bounce back

Despite his largely impressive second half of the season, Giroud has been in a bit of a rut lately. He failed to score in his last seven matches and has looked rather poor recently if I’m honest. Wenger may opt to rest him in favour of Walcott and to give the player a breather, but I suspect a good showing from him if and when he enters the fray. He likes playing against Sunderland, with three goals in four games against the Black Cats.