Toby Alderweireld has missed Tottenham Hotspur’s last three matches with injury.
Tottenham Hotspur boss Mauricio Pochettino has told the Hertfordshire Mercury that Toby Alderweireld faces a fight to win his place back in the starting line-up.
Alderweireld has missed Tottenham’s last three matches with injury, but he is edging closer to fitness now.
The Belgian defender is expected to be back for the North London derby, which takes place in two weekends’ time.
However, Pochettino insists that Alderweireld’s place in his Spurs side is far from certain, as Eric Dier has impressed him at centre-back.
“I am happy with Dier and it’s tough for Toby to take his place again,” Pochettino said.
“Football is about opportunities and taking those opportunities.”
Spurs have managed to keep two clean sheets in the three games that Alderweireld has been absent for.
However, it would still be a major surprise if Alderweireld does not feature against Arsenal – if he is fit to play in the contest.
Tottenham could be further boosted for their upcoming trip to the Emirates Stadium by the return of Harry Kane, with the striker also close to making a comeback.
Before Tottenham face Arsenal, they have matches against Leicester City and Bayer Leverkusen to play.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
