Mikel Arteta has told Friday’s press conference – as per Football London – that the yet-to-be rearranged fixture between Arsenal and Tottenham is a concern for himself and the Gunners, in the midst of the top-four race.
Arsenal remain on pole position to achieve fourth place in the Premier League, despite losing to Liverpool at The Emirates on Wednesday night. Goals from Diogo Jota and Roberto Firmino ended Arsenal’s winning streak.
The game between Tottenham and Arsenal at the new Spurs stadium was scheduled to take place on January 16 – but a series of positive tests saw the game postponed. That is yet to be rearranged before the end of the season.
Arsenal boss Arteta was asked, amid the race for a place in the top four, if he was concerned about the rescheduling of the derby: “Yes. Because I don’t know and we’re not going to be decisive and it’s very important.”
Arteta on derby: Can Tottenham catch Arsenal in top-four race?
Without a doubt. But if they are to do so, Tottenham must become so much more consistent – starting with their match against another top-four and London rival in West Ham on Sunday at home.
Harry Kane is at his best, Antonio Conte is seeing improvement. But Arsenal remain three points ahead, and with a game in hand over Spurs. Arsenal’s game in hand is against Chelsea, though.
So, plenty could be made on the race for the top four in the hotly-anticipated North London derby. If Spurs win that, and beat West Ham on Sunday, Conte will certainly be licking his lips at his side’s chances.
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