Le Bris Adjusts Midfield Setup
Régis Le Bris faces a midfield overhaul against reigning champions Arsenal. Granit Xhaka will captain Sunderland against his former club tonight. He partners Noah Sadiki in central midfield. The tactical adjustment covers the loss of Habib Diarra. The midfielder is sidelined until after the international break. Winger Romaine Mundle is also out.
Brian Brobbey Pushes For Start
Le Bris rotated heavily for the recent Hull City match. Brian Brobbey now pushes to start ahead of Wilson Isidor. The manager must build on his latest tactical team changes to handle Arsenal. Xhaka’s experience is vital to disrupt the visitors’ possession scheme.
Arsenal Manage Defensive Concerns
Mikel Arteta handles his own selection issues. William Saliba remains absent with a back problem. Jurrien Timber is nearing a return. Arteta spoke to EPL Index about the defender.
“Let’s see, we have another training session [on Friday],” Arteta said. “He’s been doing really well, he’s been training with us now for a few days and he looks in good shape.”
Cristhian Mosquera is also pushing for involvement. Arteta admitted the defender is close.
“He’s been doing really well,” Arteta added. “Let’s see if he can get this game or the next one. It will be around that time, I think.”
The visitors could also hand Bruno Guimaraes a first league start.
Official team sheets arrive one hour before the 8pm kick-off.
