Arsenal legend Paul Merson has already started thinking about the North London derby.
The Gunners will travel to N17 after the international break to battle for three points against Spurs in the Premier League.
Mikel Arteta’s side will be eager to redeem themselves in style after dropping points to Brighton last time out at the Emirates.
While Arsenal will be confident heading to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium as a result of their record there over the past two seasons, there are already some doubts ahead of the game.
Paul Merson shares North London derby verdict
A host of Arteta’s players are currently on international duty although their minds won’t be far from the upcoming duel against Tottenham.
Games don’t come much bigger than the North London derby for both Arsenal and Spurs, who will be raring to go to battle next weekend.
Arsenal have won on their previous two visits to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium however, Paul Merson doubts that the Gunners will have another easy ride.
“I was very bullish last time, turned up and thought Arsenal are going to win this game, I ain’t sure this time,” Merson explained to Sky Sports.
MORE ARSENAL STORIES
“Declan Rice is a big miss. I think it’s a big two games for Arsenal coming up, if they don’t get at least four points the they’re right up against it, a big big football match.”
Declan Rice picked up a controversial red card against Brighton, a decision that has certainly split opinion and one that rules him out of the North London derby.
Arteta will also be without fellow midfielder Mikel Merino, giving the manager a significant challenge to overcome when selecting his starting XI.
Arsenal must be wary of Tottenham’s threat
Aside from the fact that Arteta will be missing a crucial part of the spine of his team, Merson also called on the Gunners to not underestimate Spurs.
While the Lilywhites haven’t had an overly impressive start, recording a win, a draw and a defeat from their opening three Premier League games, the Arsenal icon believes that Ange Postecoglou’s side have a lot more to offer.
“I think Tottenham should have more points than they should have, they were outstanding against Leicester in the first half, I think this is a difficult game for Arsenal.”
For three points and for bragging rights, Arteta will be hopeful of defying the odds and emerging victorious from the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, with a lot riding on the Spaniard’s squad selection.