North London Derby Preview
The North London Derby, Arsenal against Tottenham, perhaps one of the biggest rivalries in English football. The Gunners take on Spurs at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday. Arsenal have been in fine form. They are unbeaten since their opening day defeat to Liverpool. Tottenham, however, are without a win in 6 games.
Team News
Arsenal
The home team have had a couple of injuries in recent weeks with the likes of Bellerin and Walcott. However, Wenger indicated in his press conference that both should be fit for the derby. In addition Nacho Monreal should be able to play as well. A doubt remains over Santi Cazorla after an Achilles problem. The Spaniard’s creativity is extremely important to Arsenal’s play and hopefully should be fit after resuming training.
Arsenal have a new found squad depth with Aaron Ramsey and Olivier Giroud in fine form after returning from injuries. This also provides Wenger with backup in addition to players like Oxlade Chamberlain and Elneny. Shkodran Mustafi and Laurent Koscielny have also formed a great partnership at the back.
Tottenham
Tottenham have plenty of injuries to worry about. Harry Kane will be the biggest absentee as the Englishman recovers from an ankle injury. While he has rejoined training, Pochettino has mentioned that he is unlikely to play. Defender Toby Alderweireld is also likely to miss the game. Moussa Dembele was subbed off in the Champions League due to injury is another doubtful the Spurs have to deal with.
Vincent Janssen remains under the spotlight as the Dutchman has failed to fill the boots of Harry Kane. Spurs have also not shown their usual free scoring form. Dele Alli remains an important player while Kevin Wimmer will have to play well alongside Jan Vertonghen.
Key Battles
Alexis Sanchez vs Heung Min Son
The battle between two strikers, or rather two converted strikers. Both the Chilean and Korean have been utilized as forwards this season and have impressed. Sanchez is in fine form and is really growing into the role. Son had a brilliant September and October since finding form. He is likely to start up front considering Vincent Janssen’s struggles upfront.
Mesut Ozil vs Christian Eriksen
Mesut Ozil dazzled in Bulgaria with a fantastic solo goal against Ludogorets. The German maestro is in stunning form and is scoring freely rather than just assisting. He remains an integral part of Arsenal. Christian Eriksen is not in the greatest of form but has the quality to change a game. His set piece expertise could also be very important if Spurs fail to control the game.
Francis Coquelin vs Victor Wanyama
A key defensive battle in midfield. Coquelin has been quietly brilliant with his combative style and interceptions. The Frenchman has also shown an eagerness to show up in attacking positions this campaign. Victor Wanyama is extremely physical and effective in breaking up attacks. The Kenyan is integral to the Spurs foundation and will be tasked with handling Arsenal’s pace and quality.
Shkodran Mustafi vs Jan Vertonghen
Rather than Koscielny, Mustafi is in the spotlight after bringing solidity to the Arsenal back four which it has lacked for years. The German has formed a good understanding with Koscielny and provides aggression in tackles. He is also adept at playing out from the back. Vertonghen is a proven Premier League caliber center back and is also a leader. The Belgian will be tasked with marshaling his defense and has a huge role to play. His height also makes him a threat at set pieces.
Final Word
This edition of the North London Derby will surely be as fiery as ever. Spurs are unbeaten in the League but are win-less in 6. Arsenal have been in imperious form unbeaten since the opening day but have been slightly exposed defensively. Another factor that may play up is the fatigue after Champions League games. Having said that however, this is a standout fixture for two clubs competing for the Premier League Title.
Predicted Line-Ups
Arsenal– Cech, Bellerin, Mustafi, Koscielny, Gibbs, Coquelin, Xhaka, Walcott, Ozil, Iwobi, Sanchez
Tottenham– Lloris, Walker, Wimmer, Vertonghen, Rose, Wanyama, Dier, Lamela, Alli, Eriksen, Son