What was supposed to be a difficult week for Spurs fans has turned into a week of celebration with two massive victories. Mauricio Pochettino’s men took time to reflect on average performances throughout international break to produce two fantastic results. A 3-1 victory over rivals Chelsea kick-started Tottenham’s festive campaign along with a gritty 1-0 win over Inter Milan. Two completely styles of football but two massive victories. Before the dreaded break, Spurs found themselves with their best ever start to a Premier League campaign, accumulating 27 points. However, the style of play is what put any celebration down.
Unai Emery v Mauricio Pochettino
Arsenal, on the other, hand have turned around their poor start to the season after two losses. Now, two and a bit months later, the Gunners are 16 games unbeaten and are starting to get back to their best. Unai Emery has changed the mood around the Emirates, with many fans hopeful of a successful season in his first campaign. Despite drawing three games on the trot before the match on Sunday against Bournemouth, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s strike and a Jefferson Lerma own goal gave them another three points heading into a important weekend.
Mauricio Pochettino Against Arsenal
This has been one of the oldest rivialries in football, with the first game being dated back to November 1896. Tottenham fans cannot deny North London was red in the beginning of Arsene Wenger’s tenure. However, the arrival of Mauricio Pochettino has seen Tottenham overshadow their neighbours by finishing above them in the past two years. But the lack of trophies coming back to the white side of London has seen Arsenal still act like the big boys of the neighbourhood. The Argentine has found the Emirates a tough place to go and get results after failing to win since appointment.
Team News
Arsenal will continue to monitor French striker Alexandre Lacazzette after he missed the win against Bournemouth. Mesut Ozil could be set for a re-cal after being dropped at the weekend.
Juan Foyth is back in for selection after being ineligible against Inter Milan for Spurs. Jan Vertoghen could come back into the starting eleven. Christian Eriksen, who was brought on against Inter Milan, may start this game.
Predictions
Arsenal have been strong so far this season, especially in attack, but the defence might give Tottenham some key opportunities. Tottenham have got their mojo back and, with key players returning, this could be the wrong time to face the Lilywhites.
Prediction: Arsenal 1-1 Tottenham
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