“It helps Tottenham for next year” - Paul Merson hilariously trolls Spurs after Arsenal secure 3-2 derby win

Former Arsenal midfielder Paul Merson reacted to Tottenham Hotspur's 3-2 Premier League home defeat to the Gunners on Sunday (April 28).

In a rivetting north London derby, Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg put the ball through his own net in the 15th minute as Mikel Arteta's side drew first blood. Bukayo Saka and Kai Havertz compounded Spurs' misery as the Gunners led 3-0 after 38 minutes.

However, Ange Postecoglou's side improved after the break, reducing arrears through Cristian Romero and captain Son-Heung Min. But the Gunners held on for their third straight league win.

In a post-game interaction shared by Sport Bible, Merson trolled Spurs, claiming that the defeat would 'help' them for next season:

"It helps Tottenham for next year, that fightback ..."

Following the loss, Spurs trail fourth-placed Aston Villa (67) in the final UEFA Champions League spot by seven points but with two games in hand. Meanwhile, Arteta's side are a point clear of Manchester City - who have a game in hand - at the top.

It's pertinent to note that the reverse fixture between the Gunners and Spurs at the Emirates earlier this season had ended 2-2.

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What's next for Arsenal and Tottenham?

Tottenham Hotspur boss Ange Postecoglou

Arsenal and Tottenham have had contrasting campaigns. While the Gunners crashed out early in both domestic cups, they reached the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals (lost to Bayern Munich).

Spurs also lost early in both domestic cups as they face a fight to return to the UEFA Champions League next season. With their top-four hopes now no longer in their own hands, Postecoglou's side next take on Chelsea away on Thursday (May 2).

Arsenal, meanwhile, continue their quest for a first league title in 20 years when they take on Bournemouth at home two days later. Arteta's side have won their last three league games as they look to thwart City's bid for a historic four-peat and end their long title drought.