Photo Credit: Sunderland’s Brian Brobbey scored a late equaliser against Arsenal | Reuters (as used by PunchNG)
Arteta Urges Arsenal To Avoid Repeat Of Sunderland Slip-Up

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has warned his side to learn from last season’s disappointment at the Stadium of Light as they prepare to face Sunderland again on Saturday.

The Gunners let a late lead slip in the corresponding fixture last campaign, settling for a 2-2 draw after Sunderland striker Brian Brobbey struck a late equaliser.

Arteta says that experience is still fresh and his team must be fully prepared for another tough test.
“We experienced last season how tough it’s going to be. It’s an unbelievable atmosphere, and it’s great to play in these kinds of games. We know how ready they’re going to be,” Arteta said via the club’s website.

“Last year, we dropped points there, especially in the last minutes. We experienced and learned a lot from that game. Again, we’ll discuss many things that we need to be aware of and where we want to take the game, what their qualities are and how we’ll try to nullify them.”
Arsenal go into the game in fine form, having won their opening five matches of the season. They have also won their last three Premier League away games and have lost only one of their last 12 league matches on the road.

Sunderland, however, have been strong at home since their return to the Premier League. The Black Cats lost only four of their 19 home league games last season and have won their last two home games heading into the clash with the champions.

Sunderland boss Regis Le Bris said his team will lean on their fighting spirit and home support to make life difficult for Arsenal.
“To be competitive in this kind of game, we have to be ourselves. Our underdog mentality, togetherness and connection with the fans is crucial,” Le Bris said.

“We have to make it as uncomfortable and as difficult as possible. The supporters are a powerful driver, but it starts from us.”
Historically, Arsenal have dominated this fixture, winning 18 of the last 29 Premier League meetings, with Sunderland winning once and 10 ending in draws. The Gunners have also lost only once in their last 14 league visits to the Stadium of Light.
Source: Punch Newspapers