Now normally I'm not so defeatist, but having seen the way we played against Bolton last weekend, I can't say I hold out much hope of turning over the Gunners.

In fact, if we perform anything like we did at the Reebok Stadium, then Arsenal will have a field day.

And that, in my opinion, won't be good enough.

OK, so there's nothing riding on this game for either side (don't tell Roy Keane I said that), but that doesn't mean we should just go through the motions.

Keane is obviously still furious at our display against the Trotters, and I can't say I blame him.

Thousands of fans forked out their hard-earned cash to make their way down to Lancashire to support a bunch of blokes who will earn more in a week than many of the supporters earn in a year.

So to just treat the game like it was a pre-season friendly or a Sunday morning kickabout is not only disrespectful, it's downright disgraceful.

I am well aware that players are only human, and everyone has an off day, but all most Sunderland fans ever ask is 100 per cent effort, and whatever skills a player is or isn't blessed with, if they can't put that in then they shouldn't be pulling on a red and white shirt.

Anyway, rant over, and we move on.

Getting back to tomorrow's clash with the Gunners, you can bet that Arsene Wenger's side won't be taking their eye off the ball, or foot off the pedal.

The season may have been one of disappointment for the North London outfit, but don't expect for a second that will stop them from playing their own inimitable brand of attacking football.

On their day, there aren't too many teams who can destroy their opponents with that type of flowing, powerful and rapid style.

If you're looking on as a neutral then it's lovely to watch, but if it's your team that they are putting through the proverbial wringer, then it's downright painful.

While there is no doubt that we would struggle to compete with the Gunners skill-wise, there is no reason why we can't match them for effort, and that's the least Keane will expect of his side.

The season may be over in terms of staying up or going down for the red and whites, but there's always pride to play for, and no one should forget that.

Next season we are hoping to take another step along the road to becoming a Premier League force.

And while no one is suggesting we try to run before we can walk, there's no reason why we can't give it a go against the Gunners.

After all, what better way to thank the loyal fans for their support than treating them to a display of true grit and determination?

Keep the faith.