Since 1995, Tottenham Hotspur have not managed to finish above Arsenal which just goes on to show that the Gunners have held the upper hand for a really long time. However, it appears that the tables are about to turn thanks to the lavish spending spree Spurs have gone about this transfer window.
The residents of White Hart Lane lost the fourth spot to Gunners last season but this time around, it could be a different story altogether and the upcoming encounter between the two sides this Sunday at the Emirates could be a proof of this.
More depth to the game-play
During the Gareth Bale days, Spurs always seemed to lack something extra about them and if it were not for the Welshman’s goals, things could have been very damaging for Andre Villas-Boas side last season. With Bale gone, there will be a chance to see some players perform much better, especially those players whose qualities were overshadowed by him.
Harassing Bacary Sagna
The experienced Frenchman is a great threat while going forward but has many times, shown vulnerability in performing his defensive duties. For that reason, a lot of burden falls on the shoulder of young Belgian winger, Nacer Chadli. The summer signing has shown promise in his first two league game for AVB’s side. Blessed with great pace, great dribbling skills and an ability to whip in beautiful crosses, a great performance from this particular player could be a defining point in the game.
Winding up Jack Wilshere
It is pretty clear for all to see that since the departure of Robin Van Persie to Manchester United, Jack Wilshere has become the heart and soul of Arsene Wenger’s side. The young England international has always been consistent but has the tendency to lose it which is why he becomes an easy target for opposition players who wind him up week in week out. For this reason, Etienne Capoue and Paulinho must try to minimise the England international’s influence and also wind him up into doing something irrational which will be to the Spurs’ advantage.
Speed merchants required
It is very likely that Laurent Koscielny returns to the starting eleven following his suspension to partner Per Mertesacker in defence. This particular defensive pairing is not the quickest in the region and with the pace they have in their ranks, Spurs should look to capitalise on that. In their first game of the season, Arsenal lost 3-1 to Aston Villa and the first two goals scored by the Villans were via penalties which were conceded thanks to the blistering pace of Gabby Agbonlahor. Though Aaron Lennon and Chadli might not be as speedy as Agbonlahor, both have excellent bursts of pace which if used well could cause the Gunners’ defence a lot of problems.
All in all what we await is an exciting derby between two teams who will leave no stone unturned when they face each other on Sunday, a win for either side apart from earning them bragging rights will give them a huge boost of confidence which will be vital through the course of the season.
