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The second North London derby of the season as the two clubs battle for Champions League qualification spots. A victory for Arsenal will see them move to a point behind Tottenham while a victory for Tottenham will make things extremely challenging for Arsenal to catch up.
Arsenal emerged winners in the previous fixture held at the Emirates. Given Arsenal's worrying away form, this fixture will be a battle for both teams. Here is how we can expect Arsenal to line up against their rivals in a 4-2-3-1 formation.
Goalkeeper
Arsenal's first choice goalkeeper Petr Cech is expected to miss the North London clash, after going off injured in the match against Everton. Having played all the Premier League games this season, Cech could be replaced by David Ospina, who has been left to play in cup games as well as European fixtures.
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The Colombian will be eager to be on the pitch in the highly-anticipated match. However, given that he is short as compared to other goalkeepers Arsenal have, it may pose a challenge for him when defending set pieces. The lack of game time for him is also worrying as fans wonder if he is good enough for this crucial clash against North London rivals.
Right Back
Hector Bellerin, like Cech, has played in all Premier League games for the Gunners. Although his effectiveness has started to wane a little as compared to the previous seasons, it is beyond doubt that he poses a serious attacking threat, which can be valuable against Tottenham.
Efficient in running forward, Bellerin's speed makes it possible for Arsenal to attack quickly down the right flank.
Centre-backs
The senior French defender will definitely be in the starting lineup if he does not suffer any injury. His troubling Achilles has forced him to miss a couple of Premier League games this season.
The North London derby will certainly be a tough match for him and his partner as they have to keep Harry Kane and possibly Son Heung-Min quiet throughout a game. A slip in concentration may be costly for the Gunners.
Too often, misplaced passes from Arsenal's defenders allowed their opponents to exploit. Hence, the defenders have to be extra wary of every single ball and movement they make when they take on Kane and Co.
Arsene Wenger's preferred centre-back partnership involves both Koscielny and Mustafi. There is little doubt that Mustafi will play a major part in the derby. His recent performances show his positional awareness when balls are crossed in.
Left-Back
Arsenal's Spanish left-back, Nacho Monreal, has been producing quite a number of wonderful performances since his return from injury. His magnificent form deserves to be rewarded with a match against Tottenham.
While he was injured, Maitland-Niles took his place. Maitland-Niles has worked effortlessly when given the chance, but when it comes to experience, Monreal has a bigger advantage than the English youngster.
Central Midfield
Aaron Ramsey was restored to the starting lineup in the previous match after suffering a hamstring injury. The Welshman had the opportunity to shine as he ran dangerously and with purpose into the box.
It remains to be seen whether Ramsey will get the nod because Jack Wilshere is also a possible contender for his spot. Wenger rarely plays the duo together and will prefer having a defensive midfielder.
Since his arrival in 2016, Granit Xhaka has received mixed reviews. In his first season, he was blamed for receiving too many unnecessary red cards.This season, he has managed to be more discipline in his tackles, doing them without much punishment.
Although Xhaka has been guilty of failing to track back too many times, his powerful left foot has compensated for that. His ability to accurately find the right player has given Arsenal the power of advancing quickly during counter-attacks.
Tottenham will not be a team that sits back and defend throughout the game. When Tottenham loses the ball in the midfield, Arsenal will have to rely on Xhaka to make decisive passes forward to creative midfielders like Ozil and Mkhitaryan.
Attacking Midfield
The German player formed a formidable partnership with Alexis Sanchez previously. Now, he has Mkhitaryan playing alongside him in midfield and Aubameyang upfront. His ability to see passes, drive the ball to its target accurately and create goalscoring chances makes him an invaluable player for the team.
Without him playing, it is difficult for the team to create anything towards the goal. Against strong rivals, Tottenham, the Arsenal team will be trying their best to get the ball to him.
Left Winger
The former Manchester United player made his home debut over the weekend and it had been spectacular for the fans. If Mkhitaryan is able to perform at a consistently high level, Arsenal will surely benefit from the transfer.
At the same time, he and Aubameyang were once team-mates at Borussia Dortmund. Now playing in the same team once again, this upcoming match will a test of their partnership.
Right Winger
Since Wenger's tactics against Everton worked out well, I doubt Wenger will replace this man. He is one of the most hardworking players in the team even though his efforts often go down the drain.
After a poor run of form, Iwobi has since stepped up his game and can be seen playing better in recent games.
Forward
The former Dortmund player is highly likely to be given a position in the starting lineup against Arsenal's tough opponent. His qualities displayed throughout his career will be put to a stern test in the upcoming match.
Recent Arsenal forwards have failed to perform well enough in big matches. With a confident goalscorer leading the line, all eyes will be on the Gabon international to see how he performs against Spurs.
