Tottenham v Arsenal preview

As if this bubbling cauldron of raging rivalry needed any extra spice, Robbie Keane returns as Tottenham and Arsenal’s paths align.

Both clubs made significant captures on deadline day…Keane returning as skipper for Spurs, Andrei Arshavin swapping the snow of Russia for…the snow of North London.

The fact both clubs delved deep into the coffers is a sign of the times…these clubs usually meet on better terms. Arsenal are often chasing a title, Spurs are usually fooling their supporters into thinking fourth place is on the agenda.

Victory means no less on Sunday, but this time the greatest feeling it would bring is relief as Spurs stave off the threat of relegation whilst Arsenal cling to Aston Villa’s Champions League-chasing coat-tails.

If Harry Redknapp has any sense, he’ll send out a lynch mob on Emmanuel Adebayor from kick-off, the giant African has scored in his last seven appearances against Tottenham.

Spurs have their own little gem in Jermaine Jenas. He has four in his last five against Arsenal – but will Redknapp prefer him to the likes of Palacios, Zokora and Modric in midfield?

There are headaches for Redknapp throughout his line-up, not least up front. Does Keane partner Roman Pavlyuchenko? Will Darren Bent edge out Harry’s missus for a place on the bench?

Arsenal, despite general consensus, actually enter this match with a more solid spine than they are given credit for.

Having once boasted a defence more wobbly than Bruce Grobbelaar’s legs, The Gunners have only conceded twice in their last five league games and are unbeaten in 10.

The draw at home to West Ham in their last outing highlighted the need for creativity – hence Arshavin, but they have scored in 10 of their last 11 games on the road.

Robin van Persie will surely start after being rested against West Ham, so much rests on that man’s shoulders this weekend.

For Spurs there is a little bit of history to be made. Their first goal on Sunday will be the 100th scored at White Hart Lane in Premier League London derbies.

PREDICTION: 1-2

PIVOTAL PLAYER: Denilson. Still learning his trade, Arsenal need their Brazilian youngster to grab hold of the midfield if they are to enjoy more success at the expense of their rivals.

Bet on the game with Paddy Power:
Tottenham 2/1 Draw 9/4 Arsenal 7/5

Click here for all the latest injury news from the two clubs through our partnership with physioroom.com.

Get Arsenal tickets with Viagogo by clicking here. 

See below for the latest situation regarding the predictions made on Footbo.com and have your say by joining our game.