Arsenal vs Sunderland: Latest Team News and Injury Updates
Arsenal are hoping to welcome back key players Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard for their Premier League clash against Sunderland this weekend. The Gunners secured their place in the Carabao Cup final with a victory over Chelsea on Tuesday night, but manager Mikel Arteta was forced to manage without both Saka and Odegaard for that crucial match.
Injury Concerns for Key Arsenal Stars
Martin Odegaard was a surprising omission from the squad for the Chelsea match, with Arteta revealing before kick-off that his captain had felt a niggle during the weekend victory over Leeds United. Meanwhile, Bukayo Saka withdrew from the starting lineup at Elland Road just minutes before that game due to a muscle injury, and he subsequently missed the second-leg encounter with Chelsea.
Saka is scheduled to undergo further medical assessments today, while Arteta has downplayed the severity of Odegaard's issue. The Arsenal boss is expected to provide a more detailed update on both players when he addresses the media ahead of Saturday's match against Sunderland.
Additional Squad News and Predicted Lineup
Aside from long-term absentee Max Dowman, Arteta has enjoyed a relatively fit squad in recent weeks. However, the manager now faces a prolonged absence for midfielder Mikel Merino, who is set to undergo surgery on his foot. This development adds to the selection headaches as Arsenal prepare for the visit of the Black Cats.
With Arsenal currently sitting six points clear at the top of the Premier League table, and with Aston Villa and Manchester City facing tough away fixtures this weekend, the Gunners have an opportunity to extend their lead. Their performance against Sunderland could be pivotal in maintaining their title challenge.
Metro's Predicted Arsenal Lineup
As things stand, both Saka and Odegaard remain doubts for the match. Given Arteta's tendency to be guarded about injury news, their availability may not be confirmed until just before kick-off. In Saka's absence against Leeds, Noni Madueke impressed and was substituted after 70 minutes in the Chelsea match, possibly with this weekend's game in mind.
Eberechi Eze played the full 90 minutes against Chelsea but had limited impact on the game. If Odegaard is not deemed fit, Madueke could be handed another starting opportunity. Arteta will need to balance squad rotation with the need for points as Arsenal aim to consolidate their position at the summit of the league.
Match Details and Viewing Information
The Premier League encounter between Arsenal and Sunderland is scheduled to kick off at 3pm on Saturday, 7th February. Due to the traditional blackout period for live football broadcasts in the UK at that time, the match will not be televised live. However, fans can follow all the action through Metro's comprehensive live matchday blog, which will provide minute-by-minute updates and analysis.
