Sunderland boss Regis Le Bris has suggested Arsenal are among the best teams in Europe right now, admitting his team face a tough challenge this weekend.
Following an away win over Leeds United last weekend, Arsenal go into Saturday’s match against Sunderland six points clear at the top of the table.
The Gunners’ match takes place at the same time as Aston Villa’s trip away to Bournemouth, so Mikel Arteta’s side could end the game as many as 10 points ahead of Unai Emery’s third-placed side or as few as four clear.
But perhaps more importantly, Arsenal could extend their lead over Manchester City to nine points ahead of Pep Guardiola’s trip to Anfield on Sunday.
Standing in the way of that target are Sunderland, who have already taken two points off Arsenal in a draw at the Stadium of Light back in November.
Sunderland boss Regis Le Bris admits his team will need to be at their best again this weekend to get another result at the Emirates Stadium.
“We have to show the best version of Sunderland, with an underdog mindset,” Le Bris said. “They are playing at a huge level, they are impressive in the Premier League, outstanding in the Champions League, they are probably one of the best teams in Europe at the minute.
“So tough challenge. Exciting challenge, I would like to paint this picture. But we know that the level expected is really high. We’ll try our best.”
Sunderland will be without former Gunner Granit Xhaka for the match, as well as Arthur Masuaku, Jocelin Ta Bi, and Bertrand Traore. But fellow ex-Arsenal player Daniel Ballard will be available, after grabbing a goal and assist against the Gunners in the reverse fixture.