The first North London Derby of the season takes place this weekend as Tottenham visit Arsenal at Emirates Stadium
One of the most highly anticipated fixtures of the Premier League season is upon us. It’s time for round one of the 2017-2018 North London Derby. Arsenal will play host to Tottenham at Emirates Stadium this weekend.
This rivalry has been contested 193 times dating back to 1896. Arsenal have been victorious in 80 of these fixtures while Tottenham have won 62 of these matches. The clubs drew level on 51 occasions.
The Gunners have generally had the better of Spurs in the Premier League era but some believe there has been a power shift. Tottenham finished above Arsenal last season for the first time in 22 years. The white half of North London is playing Champions League football this season while the red half are toiling in the Europa League.
When these two clubs meet bragging rights are on the line. The passion of the players and the fans is turned up a level and losing is not an option. The regular season standings are rarely a concern. This is a must win match for both sides. Win and you can proclaim that #NorthLondonIsRed or #NorthLondonIsWhite. Lose and you’ll never heard the end of it from supporters of the other side.
Spurs are currently third in the table and sit four points above their rivals.
Latest news heading in to the match
On the injury front both sides are dealing with issues. Spurs keeper Hugo Lloris is a doubt for the match while Victor Wanyama and Toby Alderweireld are likely to miss out.
Harry Kane, Harry Winks and Dele Alli sat out England’s matches during the international break but are expected to be fit for Arsenal.
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Olivier Giroud is a major doubt for the Gunners after picking up a thigh injury with the French national team.
On a positive note, striker Danny Welbeck could return for Arsenal after a month out injured.
The head games have begun for this match. In an interview with Sky Sports, Arsenal keeper Petr Cech dismissed the idea of a power shift between the two clubs.
“Our target is to win the title and be successful during the season, not necessarily looking at what Tottenham are doing.”
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He then added, “They’ve been there in the last few years so now I think they have to make sure they win something to show the progression. Success is ultimately winning trophies.”