Sam Allardyce will play a weakened side for Saturday’s FA Cup tie against Arsenal because of “diabolical” Premier League fixtures.
After a gruelling festive periods Sunderland face three away matches in seven days, following their visit to the Emirates with crucial league games against Swansea and Tottenham.
Four points off safety at the midway stage of the Premier League Allardyce is clear that his priority is survival and that he has no choice but to weaken his side away to Arsenal.
“Of course I'm going to make changes for our Cup tie at Arsenal on Saturday,” he told reporters. “If the Premier League decides to put a stupid fixture midweek when they don't bloody need to, then I haven't got much choice.
“It's diabolical. We're flogging the lads. There are more and more injuries every year but it's completely ignored by the Premier League. It's unbelievable.
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“If you want us to respect the FA Cup, don't put Premier League fixtures in the midweek just after new year. Don't give me stick when I change the side at Arsenal. Give the Premier League stick, not the managers.”
Arsene Wenger is also expected to rest key names for the third round match with Mesut Ozil in line for a break having played every festive fixture.
