Paul Merson reveals Six Big Sunderland ‘problem’ after Arsenal defeat. ‘They won’t stop that..’

Sunderland’s return to the Premier League has been a story of grit and ambition. After years outside the top flight the Black Cats have rebuilt under Régis Le Bris with a clear identity built on organisation, intensity and a never-say-die attitude that has already earned them respect. Early results showed promise mixed with the inevitable learning curve that every newly promoted side faces when the standard rises.

Arsenal arrived at the Stadium of Light as reigning champions and the early pacesetters of the new season. Mikel Arteta’s side have looked ruthless and composed, and their 2-0 victory on Wearside maintained a perfect start. The defeat left Sunderland searching for answers, and Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson did not hold back when he identified six major problems the club must solve.

Paul Merson said: “First problem – they are not clinical enough. They create moments and then they don’t take them. Against Arsenal they had a penalty and couldn’t convert it. In this league you get one or two big chances and if you miss them you pay.”

Paul Merson continued: “Second problem – individual mistakes at the back. One lapse in concentration and the game can swing. Arsenal punished them the moment the penalty was saved. That is the difference at this level. You cannot switch off for a second.”

Paul Merson stated: “Third problem – they struggle when the quality goes up. Against sides who keep the ball and move it quickly, Sunderland look a yard off the pace. Arsenal controlled the midfield for long periods and Sunderland couldn’t get a foothold.”

Paul Merson said: “Fourth problem – set-pieces and second balls. They are solid for long spells but when the ball drops in the box or from a transition they are second to it. Top teams live on those moments. Sunderland are still learning how to deal with them.”

Paul Merson added: “Fifth problem – squad depth when the legs go. They put in a big shift but as the game went on the intensity dropped. Arsenal brought on quality and changed the game. Sunderland need more options who can come on and raise the level.”

Paul Merson explained: “Sixth problem – the mentality against the very best. They compete and they fight, but when the big moment arrives they are not quite ready to take it. That penalty save and the goal two minutes later killed them. That is the gap they have to close.”

Paul Merson concluded: “They won’t stop that. Arsenal will keep coming at teams like this all season. If Sunderland don’t sort these six problems quickly they will keep getting punished by the sides at the top. The fight is there, the organisation is there, but the fine margins are killing them. That has to change.”