It’s an early start for the latest battle between these North London rivals – here is everything you need to know.
If this derby had been played a month ago, Tottenham would probably have felt a lot more confident. Mauricio Pochettino’s side started October with a superb win over Manchester City thanks to one of their best performances in recent memory, leading to talk of a title challenge.
A few weeks down the line, the situation is less rosy at White Hart Lane. Spurs have not won in any competition since defeating Pep Guardiola’s side, and though Tottenham are still unbeaten in the Premier League they have dropped to fifth.
Tottenham’s Mousa Dembele in action with Arsenal’s Aaron Ramsey
It is a different story with their near neighbours. Arsenal have not lost in the Premier League since the opening day and sit second after cruising past Sunderland last weekend, while a fine comeback against Ludogorets in midweek secured their Champions League qualification.
One of the oldest footballing cliches is that the formbook goes out the window on derby day, and Spurs have the incentive of going level on points with the Gunners if they triumph at the Emirates.
Arsenal’s Hector Bellerin in action with Tottenham’s Dele Alli (C) and Mousa Dembele
The Key Battle – Mesut Ozil vs Victor Wanyama
The German international has excelled for Arsenal this season, with his superb winner in midweek the latest highlight in a productive campaign so far.
Wanyama has also enjoyed a strong start to the season since arriving at Spurs from Southampton in the summer, and will be eager to make his mark in the midfield as he did so successfully against Manchester City a month ago.
Arsenal’s Mesut Ozil scores their third goal against Ludogorets
Last Meeting:
March’s clash between these two teams at White Hart Lane was a cracker, with Alexis Sanchez’s late equaliser securing a point for ten-man Arsenal after a stunner from Harry Kane had put Spurs 2-1 ahead.
That match was one of 48 draws in this fixture, which Arsenal have won 75 times and Tottenham have claimed 55 victories.
Brian Marwood – Arsenal in action against Gary Mabbutt – Tottenham Hotspur
Recent league form – most recent last:
Arsenal – WWWWDW
Tottenham – WWWDDD
Who’s the ref?
Mark Clattenburg is set to take charge of his sixth North London derby this weekend.
The 41-year-old has overseen ten games in all competitions this season, showing 42 yellow cards and one red.
Arsenal’s Per Mertesacker and Tottenham’s Dele Alli in action
What time is kick off?
It’s a noon start at the Emirates, with the action kicking off at 12pm.
Where can I watch it?
BT Sport 1 are showing the latest North London tussle, with the build-up beginning at 11.15am.
Odds
Arsenal – 10/11
Draw – 5/2
Tottenham – 3/1
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