Sunderland v Arsenal Tip

In a repeat of last week’s Premier League fixture I think Martin O’Neill can avenge that stoppage-time defeat, and inflict more misery on Arsene Wenger. The Arsenal boss had one of his worst nights in the job on Wednesday when his side were humiliated 4-0 by AC Milan. Sometimes you think that sort of result will spark a great response next time out; with this Arsenal team I’m not convinced.

First of all, let’s not forget how close the Black Cats came to victory just seven days ago. The Mackems were 1-0 up with 15 minutes to go before Aaron Ramsey and Thierry Henry turned the game on its head. The inspirational Frenchman has now ended his loan spell with the north London club and the team news is no better at the other end of the pitch. Per Mertesacker was stretchered off at the Stadium of Light last week and fellow centre-half Laurent Koscielny has now joined him on the sidelines.

Wenger is forced to put square pegs in round holes again while Sunderland should be refreshed by a week off. Captain Lee Catermole is expected to provide his manager with a timely boost by returning to action following a hamstring injury. O’Neill’s side are still on great form and seem unlikely to let the weary Gunners off the hook again. At best odds of 19/10 (PaddyPower), Sunderland should be favoured to reach the quarter finals on their own patch.