Mikel Arteta revealed that he has a ‘good headache’ ahead of Arsenal’s clash with Tottenham on Sunday. The Spaniard is only sweating on the fitness of Jurrien Timber heading into the clash, with the defender reaching the end of his recovery from an ACL injury that he sustained on the opening weekend of the season. Express Sport takes a look at how the Gunners could line up for the North London Derby…
Goalkeeper: David Raya
Raya was hardly tested by Chelsea in midweek, but a tougher task is anticipated this weekend. The Spain international is closing in on the Golden Glove this season and a clean sheet against Spurs would see him take an almighty step towards landing the accolade.
Defence: Ben White, William Saliba, Gabriel, Takehiro Tomiyasu
Three of Arsenal’s back four pick themselves this season, with White, Saliba and Gabriel being rock-solid and providing the ideal platform for their attacking-minded teammates to build upon. Tomiyasu impressed against Chelsea and therefore looks likely to remain at left-back, with the Japan international also starting against Bayern Munich last week too.
Arteta revealed on Friday that a decision had not been made on whether Timber is fit to feature against Tottenham, but it feels unlikely that he will be thrown in at the deep end against the Gunners’ fiercest rivals.
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Midfield: Martin Odegaard, Declan Rice, Jorginho
Odegaard was nothing short of sensational against Chelsea in midweek and he will need to replicate that display if he is to stamp his authority this weekend. Thomas Partey also did well against the Blues, though Jorginho could be preferred to the Ghana international due to his know-how and experience in the very biggest games. The Italy international’s willingness to slow the game down and ensure that Arsenal can play at their own pace could be pivotal up against Ange Postecoglou’s high-pace, intense Tottenham.
