Arsène Wenger has revealed the late team news ahead of Arsenal’s game against Sunderland on Saturday.

The Gunners are expected to rotate for the FA Cup third round game, and will have captain Mikel Arteta available after the captain completed 45 minutes for the u21s on Tuesday. However, he is the only returning player.

Alexis Sánchez has been ruled out of the game, with a hamstring issue still bothering him and the match comes too soon for Tomas Rosicky’s return, even though the Czech was back in training this week.

Speaking about the prospect of rotation, Wenger insisted he is taking the FA Cup seriously as Arsenal look to win the trophy for a third consecutive season.

“The thinking is to give absolutely everything to qualify,” said the boss. “We are the holders of the cup and I know as well that it is very important that you get in the competition and that you have a successful third round. It’s a tricky one, always, the third round.”

Sunderland are likely to rotate, with Sam Allardyce unhappy about the fixture list. However, Arsenal will probably play more fringe or youth players than Wenger is letting on, especially now Arteta is available and can guide them through the game.