Arsène Wenger and Sam Allardyce have a long history of feuds but they are on a charm offensive ahead of Sunday’s Premier League clash.

Allardyce has already defended Wenger for his performance this season and the Arsenal manager has returned the favour, crediting Allardyce as he attempts to keep the Black Cats in the Premier League.

“They have found a stability with him because has big experience,” said the Arsenal manager.

Allardyce has asked his players to repeat a performance which saw Manchester United leave the Stadium of Light with nothing. Wahbi Khazri scored that day and Wenger is wary of the threat he poses.

“They have a good midfield now. They play most of the time Kirchhoff, Cattermole and M’Vila, who are quite a balanced midfield.

“Up front they have Khazri on the left, who is dangerous as well.

“Overall I think Allardyce has found a good balance. We are in a position where we want the three points so it should be an interesting battle.”

A win last weekend took Sunderland to within a point of safety: a great escape is on once again and Arsenal are the next side in their sights with everything left to play for.