The north London derby graces the Emirates Stadium on Sunday afternoon as Arsenal prepare for a crunch Premier League clash with local adversaries Tottenham Hotspur.
Arsenal know their position as table-toppers is secure for another week regardless of the outcome of derby day, but Mikel Arteta will understand the value of victory over Spurs. Not only would precious bragging rights be clinched, Arsenal’s status as title favourites would be further enhanced.
The Gunners endured a minor blip before the international break as they conceded late to Sunderland in an enthralling 2–2 draw, slightly cutting their advantage at the summit. With Manchester City and Co. hot on their tail, more blunders could see them surrender first place in the coming weeks.
Arsenal have an exceptional record in this particular fixture, unbeaten on home soil against the Lilywhites in the league since 2010. They have also won five and drawn one of the last six north London derbies.
But they face a more resilient Tottenham side than in recent seasons, Thomas Frank having helped solidify a previously leaky defence under Ange Postecoglou. They remain inconsistent, but they’re the best away side in the land right now and the only team not to be beaten on their travels in the Premier League.
Still, Spurs supporters will not enter Sunday’s rivalry brimming with confidence given their dire record at the Emirates, with a point likely celebrated wildly in N17.
Here is guide to Sunday’s Premier League derby.
