Arsenal vs. Sunderland: Players to Watch in Premier League Opening Match

The 2012 English Premier League season begin for Arsenal and Sunderland on Saturday, August 18 at 10:00 a.m. ET.

There are a number of exciting players involved in this match and it will be interesting to see if either side can break through during the 2012-13 campaign to win the league.

Sunderland obviously has a long ways to go after an 11 win, 12 draw, 15 loss season, but Arsenal is building towards a championship and finished in third place last season.

However, the Gunners lost the EPL’s leading scorer, Robin van Persie. Let’s take a look at some players that could fill his shoes and who you should watch on the Black Cats.

Gervinho - Arsenal

The Ivorian attacker has some of the best pace and finishing skills in the game. He’s had one of the best preseason’s of any EPL player and should be able to carry that momentum into the match against Sunderland.

Olivier Giroud - Arsenal

Giroud is a solid addition to the top of the Arsenal lineup. He was the top scorer in Ligue 1 last year and is now making the jump to the Gunners. If he gets a chance to take over for RVP, Giroud shouldn’t disappoint.

Lukas Podolski - Arsenal

Podoloski is also new to the Gunners and is going to be counted upon to provide a lot of scoring. The Polish-born player was stuck on FC Koln last year, but now has a chance to play top-flight football. Expect him to take advantage.

Louis Saha - Sunderland

The aging Frenchman might still be able to make an impact for the Black Cats, and they will welcome any production they can get up front. The former Fulham, Manchester United and Everton star had brief success with Tottenham last year after a free transfer, but failed to sign a long-term deal.

Saha received a one-year deal from Sunderland and could be a major force in the goals department.