‘I've felt the wrath of two who aren't going to start’
Lee Johnson is expected to name a strong Sunderland side at the Emirates tonight, but he has admitted that performances in previous rounds have been a factor in his thinking.
Sunderland have a sixday break before their next scheduled competitive fixture against Doncaster Rovers, which gives Johnson another incentive to name a strong side.
"There are people who have done very well in this competition and that is definitely a consideration," Johnson said. "Everyone wants to play in this one. There won't be sentiment towards me when I'm picking the team! I've already felt the wrath of two or three today who aren't in the starting XI.
"We've got important decisions to make. Obviously we're back to where we were around a year ago where daily tests can suddenly mean you have to change two or three players. I've learned not to worry too much about that."
Arguably Johnson's toughest decision will be who plays in goal.
Thorben Hoffmann has been in solid form and will be eager to test himself against Arsenal, while Anthony Patterson has moved into the matchday squad since returning from his loan at Notts County.
That has limited opportunities for Lee Burge. He had been scheduled to top up
his match fitness in an U23 game against Aston Villa last Friday, only for it to be postponed due to a frozen pitch.
"That's a really tough decision," Johnson said.
"Every goalkeeper that we have could stake a really valid claim. Hoff has been doing really well.
"We've brought back Patto and his training form, and his form while out on loan (has been great), and he's the young academy product who could stake the claim to get the experience.
"Lee Burge has played in previous cup games and was arguably the biggest reason why we came through the previous round.
“It's a difficult decision but it will be made with the right intention."
Grand Central provides direct rail connections from towns and cities in Yorkshire and North East England with London. Our customers are central to us, which is why we pride ourselves on excellent customer service, great value tickets and helping make memorable experiences.