SUNDERLAND, United Kingdom: Arsene Wenger has warned his Arsenal players to expect a battle against relegation-threatened Sunderland on Sunday as he targets a strong finish to a troubled campaign.
The Gunners saw off West Bromwich Albion on Thursday, although the 2-0 victory, courtesy of two Alexis Sanchez goals, was achieved in front of thousands of empty seats as fans stayed away to show their frustration at Wenger’s failure to deliver a title challenge.
With third-placed Arsenal 10 points behind leaders Leicester City and five adrift of second-placed Tottenham Hotspur, Wenger is mostly focused on qualifying for the Champions League via a top-four finish rather than catching the title contenders.
“We want to finish as high as possible,” Wenger said. “You never know what happens in front of you, there could still be twists and turns.
“I don’t know where we will finish but we have to give absolutely everything in every game.
“We go to Sunderland, who are fighting not to go down so that will be a battle and we have to prepare for that.”
Wenger may decide to delay Jack Wilshere’s comeback from injury because he anticipates a fierce challenge from Sunderland as they fight to avoid relegation.
Wilshere has not played all season because of a leg fracture in pre-season and time is running out for the midfielder to be back in action before England’s Euro 2016 squad is picked.
“At the moment I do not know if I will take him on Sunday or not. And should I take him I cannot plan whether he will play a part in the game,” Wenger said.
