Arsenal vs Tottenham Hotspur: 5 key battles to watch out for
Two of London's big clubs will clash in one of the most anticipated games of this gameweek. Arsenal and Tottenham have been at loggerheads since their inception, and Saturday's match is sure to be an absolute cracker of a derby.
The eternal rivals of North London have had contrasting fortunes this season. For a change, Tottenham have outshone their rivals by a sizable margin, flying high at third in the league table, behind Manchester United only on goal difference. Arsenal, led by a much-maligned Arsene Wenger, find themselves at a lowly 6th, and do not go into this match as favourites.
Tottenham are coming off a stunning victory over Real Madrid in the Champions League, whereas Arsenal were soundly defeated at the Etihad before the international break. Past experience, however, tells us that form and momentum do not count for much in this fierce and generally high scoring encounter.
Arsenal have historically dominated the fixture, but Tottenham are in sensational touch and are favourites to win the match. Here are 5 key personal battles that are sure intrigue viewers of the fabled North London Derby.
#5 Sead Kolasinac vs Kieran Trippier
Sead Kolasinac has so far been one of Arsenal's brightest spots in an otherwise gloomy season. The left-back was acquired on a free transfer from Schalke, and is easily one of the best pieces of business Arsene Wenger has conducted in the past year.
The marauding left-back scored the equaliser against Swansea City and assisted Aaron Ramsey's winning goal to secure an important 3 points for his club. The Gunners haven't had much happiness this season, but they have found an able soldier in Kolasinac.
The Bosnian is almost certain to encounter 27-year-old Kieran Trippier for most of Saturday's game. His solid performances at right-back have given him an edge of Serge Aurier this season, and he has started 7 of the 11 Premier League games so far. Trippier was outstanding against Real Madrid, assisting Dele Alli's goal and opening the floodgates for the team. His stability and calmness at the back have led to an England national team call-up.
While most of the focus will be on both teams' dangerous attacking players, this battle is sure to be an interesting one and could even decide the outcome of the match.