Ally McCoist raves about Sunderland tactic that could nullify Arsenal
Ally McCoist is a big fan of what he’s seen from Sunderland so far this season as the Black Cats prepare to take on Arsenal.
Regis Le Bris has been given his flowers for the exceptional job he is doing for the Black Cats, with many of the players flourishing in their first season of top-flight football.
The league leaders visit the Stadium of Light having only conceded three goals in all competitions this season, and they’ll pose a huge challenge for Sunderland players.
Arsenal’s threat in both boxes is frightening, and McCoist has explained that Sunderland must replicate the defensive tactics they used against Chelsea.
Sunderland have to play with five at the back
Sunderland’s 1-1 draw against Everton saw them use four defenders, and the result preserved their unbeaten home record this season.
However, in Sunderland’s stunning 2-1 victory over Chelsea, the 5-4-1 system worked brilliantly, and it’s essential they do this against the Gunners.
Speaking on TNT Sports ahead of Tottenham’s clash against Man United on Saturday, McCoist highlighted Sunderland’s best hopes of getting a result.
He said: “In possession against Chelsea, they had the two wing-backs wide on the touchline.
“As soon as they lost the ball, they were straight back into a solid defensive five, and they’ve been brilliant to watch.”
| Sunderland | Stat | Arsenal |
| 5 | WIns | 8 |
| 3 | Draws | 1 |
| 2 | Losses | 1 |
| 18 | Points | 25 |
| 5th | Premier League position | 1st |
With three Sunderland defenders covering the centre of the pitch, and the wing-backs and wide midfielders doubling up on Arsenal’s wingers, Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard, their attacking flair would be nullified.
Le Bris has completely transformed the belief around the Stadium of Light, and the Mackems can make another unforgettable memory against the high-flying visitors if they keep it tight in at the back.
Omar Alderete is unavailable for the Arsenal match, and Sunderland must rely on their squad depth to get them through the match.
Chelsea striker Joao Pedro struggled to get any joy against Sunderland’s steady defence, and Arsenal will have to work hard to break them down.
Dan Ballard can thwart makeshift Arsenal attack
Whilst Saka and Trossard are fit to play, the Gunners are missing several key players in attack.
Viktor Gyokeres is injured, and it means the defence will have to deal with an entirely different threat in Mikel Merino.
The tall Spaniard scored two goals against Slavia Prague in midweek, and whilst he lacks speed, his link-up play and aerial ability could pose a huge problem.
Martin Odegaard and Gabriel Martinelli are also unavailable, and it leaves Arsenal with not much pace in their attack.
Sunderland’s three centre-backs will have to be switched on at all times, and if they achieve this, there is a great possibility of stopping their Arsenal’s brilliant form.
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