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Predicted Arsenal Starting XI To Face Sunderland – Ozil To Start?

By on September 13, 2013

Thank god the interlull is over and we can get back to watching proper football again. We headed into the two week international break in high spirits following a 1-0 win over Tottenham which was quickly followed by the historic signing of Mesut Ozil on deadline day.

It was truly a memorable 48 hours for Gooners and it was just a shame we’ve had to wait to see our new man in action. But wait no longer as it seems the German playmaker is set to make his debut as we take on Sunderland at the Stadium of Light on Saturday.

Boss Arsene Wenger said he will feature and although he refused to confirm that he’ll start, an injury to Tomas Rosicky has opened the door. The only other option, if Wenger doesn’t want to play Ozil from the start, is to move Wilshere into the No.10 role and bring in Mathieu Flamini – who put in an impressive shift against Spurs when he came on.

Both Wilshere and Theo Walcott picked up knocks while playing for England but Wenger confirmed on Thursday that the duo are fit to play, and since we have very little options in reserve, both will start this weekend.

Here is the eleven I’d like to see start against the Black Cats.

With Rosicky joining Podolski, Arteta, Oxlade-Chamberlain and Diaby on the sidelines, our midfield and attacking options are limited but we’re still able to field a starting eleven that would give anyone a game.

The midfield in particular is a mouthwatering prospect. When Wilshere gets 100% fit the inter-play with Cazorla and Ozil is going to be a joy to watch.

So that would be my team and I think it will be more than good enough to see off the threat of Sunderland. Full match preview will be up later. Till then….

**UPDATE** Literally as I published this post BBC journalist David Ornstein has claimed that Per Mertesacker will miss the game through illness and Mesut Ozil is also a doubt but travels. Thomas Vermaelen has made the trip and is in line to make his first start of the season.

What would be your starting eleven? Would you risk Ozil from the start?