Premier League 2010: Sunderland vs. Arsenal Match Preview

The English Premier League returns this weekend with some very entertaining matches indeed. No guessing, most attention will be on Super Sunday as Manchester United entertain Liverpool at Old Trafford. And Chelsea welcome Blackpool to Stamford Bridge. I fear for Blackpool! 

My attention, though, is on Arsenal's trip to the Stadium of Light as they play Sunderland on Saturday, with a 17:30 pm kick off.

The Gunners have been in fine form for the start of the season, scoring an impressive 13 goals so far. Arsenal have won three games and drawn one, leaving Arsene Wenger's men second in the league table. A win against Sunderland would mean Arsenal can top the table for at least 24 hours.

But their opponents are a tricky team. Indeed, Sunderland currently lie in mid-table because of their formidable home form. The Back Cats have lost only one game at home in their last 12 games, with striker Darren Bent proving to be their most threatening player. Bent is definitely the one to watch.

However, Sunderland are missing a few key players for the game against Arsenal. Mensah and Reid are both doubtful, whereas Campbell, Meyler, Gordon, and Turner are all injured with various injuries. Cattermole is suspended after his red card against Wigan.

Although Sunderland are weaker, their confidence should be high. Their last home game was against Manchester City, and Steve Bruce's men won the game with a last minute penalty from Bent. They pose a threat to Arsenal's 100 percent unbeaten run.

Arsene Wenger says his side is beaming with confidence, and the Gunners head up north after demolishing Braga six nil in the Champions League.

Wenger has no fresh injury worries ahead of the game, as Abou Diaby and Vermaelen remain short-term absentees. But Bendtner, Van Persie, Walcott, Frimpong, and Ramsey are all long-term.

Nevertheless, after a decent start to the league, this will be a fierce test for Arsenal away from home. Many still question their capability to fight off the physical challenge of the "smaller" sides and whether the players have a winning mentality. Their characters will be tested by Steve Bruce's men, but if Arsenal want the title, then nothing but a win will do here.

Prediction: Sunderland 1-2 Arsenal

One to watch: Chamakh