Mikel Arteta to make five Arsenal changes vs Sunderland as £65m star returns

Arsenal host Sunderland in tomorrow’s Premier League game at the Emirates Stadium.

The Gunners picked up a third-straight win in all competitions after a 1-0 victory over Chelsea in the second leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final on Tuesday evening.

The club booked their spot in the final against Manchester City with a 4-2 aggregate score and will now focus on extending their six-point gap at the top of the league.

For the Sunderland clash, manager Mikel Arteta could make as many as five changes.

Goalkeeper switch

Kepa Arrizabalaga picked up a good clean sheet against the Blues in midweek, but he is expected to be replaced by David Raya, who has been an undisputed starter in the league and European matches. The Spaniard will be eyeing his 13th shutout of the top-flight campaign.

Double defensive change

Jurrien Timber was absent from yesterday’s open training session, which suggests he could be rested tomorrow. Ben White has not played a single minute in the last two games and could make the starting XI at right-back.

There could likewise be rotation in the left-back position. Piero Hincapie could make way for Riccardo Calafiori. The Italian could be handed his first league start for the Gunners since the 1-0 victory at Everton back in December.

Kai Havertz for Eberechi Eze

Eze had a frustrating outing in the attacking midfield role against the Blues. The Englishman won just two out of six duels contested and did not complete a single dribble. He was hardly an attacking influence over 90 minutes.

Kai Havertz came on as a striker for the Gunners, replacing Viktor Gyokeres, but we believe the duo could start together against the Black Cats, just like in the 4-0 rout of Leeds. With Martin Odegaard doubtful, Havertz could slot into the number 10 position.

The £65 million signing has two goals and an assist since making his first start after a lengthy knee injury last month. He scored a dramatic late winner against his former employers Chelsea and should be rewarded with a starting role versus Sunderland.

Swap on the left wing

Gabriel Martinelli got the nod over Leandro Trossard to start on the left wing. Trossard came off the bench, and there could be a straight swap against the Black Cats.

The Belgian ace has fond memories of facing tomorrow’s opposition, having scored a sublime long-range goal during the 2-2 draw at the Stadium of Light earlier this term.

Bukayo Saka won’t be involved as he continues his recovery from a hip injury.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com

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