Bragging rights at stake in North London
The North London derby takes place this Sunday, with both sides enduring poor seasons, hoping to soften the blow in pushing for Europa League qualification. Spurs have finished comfortably above Arsenal in the last three seasons however that run is under threat with Jose Mourinho’s side trailing Mikel Arteta’s men by one place and one point in ninth, with only four games remaining. It looks likely that whoever should take the points in this one will have the minimal bragging rights this summer. One that could see wholesale changes at both clubs.
Background
Tottenham are narrow favourites despite having only won two of their last eight encounters, facing a Gunners side coming off the back of taking 10 points from four outings. With sixth and possibly even seventh place expected to qualify for the Europa League this term, hopes of making something of this season are still high for both sides. The expected goals table has Arsenal four places above Spurs in ninth, Mourinho’s men drop to 13th, demonstrating the looseness of their favourites tag. The hosts have the more potent attacking contingent but are immensely poor at the back, now weakened by the suspension of Eric Dier, someone Mourinho has brought back into consideration since his appointment.
Key man
Spurs’ go to man to drag them forward is South Korea international Son Heung-Min. His levels have remained at the level the club has been in at in previous seasons, scoring 16 goals and providing 11 assists in all competitions. There will be many clubs with aspirations of acquiring the services of the 28-year-old should Mourinho secure no European competition next season. The 2018/19 Champions League finalists have the attacking potential to reach those heights again with the addition of Steven Bergwijn and reemergence of Erik Lamela, it is in central midfield and defensive areas that they need to strengthen. The ostracising of Tanguy NDombele has been a common topic of discussion in England, with the former Lyon man looking like the perfect player to add some solidity in front of the back four. As yet his situation is no clearer than during the COVID-19 break in the season.
Arsenal will play with youthful enthusiasm and have been good in front of goal of late, winning to nil against Southampton, Wolverhampton Wanderers and Norwich City in recent weeks. They have looked the stronger of the two teams since the resumption of play.
Arsenal are odds against to take all three points, give yourself some insurance with draw no bet.
Post bet chat Marcus's Tips:
Inept defending and a late Spurs rally saw Mourinho's men come from behind to win 2-1.