Prediction: Arsenal vs Tottenham

Injury-hit Arsenal will be aiming to extend their unbeaten run in the Premiership as well as make amends for the Capital One Cup exit when they host Tottenham Hotspur in the North London derby. Meanwhile, Spurs hope to end a three-match losing run in matches against the Gunners and close the gap behind their top 4 rivals.

Much criticised Arsene Wenger has made some good deals in the summer transfer window, but his failure to recruit another centre-back and holding midfielder could end up costing the team dearly. At the moment, the Gunners only have four fit first team defenders and they can only pray they do not pick up any problems over the next few weeks. While the midweek loss to Southampton is not a major cause for concern considering that Sanchez and Wilshere were the only first team regulars on the pitch, the Gunners still have inconsistency issues, having won just two of last eight matches in all competitions. The starting line-up with Mesut Ozil in a central role and Danny Welbeck up front produced excellent results in the 3-0 win over Aston Villa, and Wenger is expected to repeat the same system against the Gunners, even if one of Aaron Ramsey or Jack Wilshere will have to be used on the wing. Arsenal do seem to be playing with a lot of confidence at the moment even if not everything is going according to plan and they definitely look in much better shape than out-of-sorts Tottenham. With Danny Welbeck opening his account and Alexis Sanchez scoring his fourth goal of the season, I am tempted to back the Gunners to win their fourth straight North London derby, especially since Per Mertesacker, Kieran Gibbs and Mathieu Flamini are available for selection.

Tottenham Hotspur enjoyed a bright start to the season under new boss Mauricio Pochettino, beating West Ham and QPR in the Premier League while winning the Europa League play-offs against AEL Limassol, but the good run was short-lived. The 3-0 home loss to Liverpool seems to have acted as a major confidence blow and Spurs have struggled ever since. Tottenham not only failed to win any of their next three matches, but played way below their potential, which is a major cause for concern ahead of the derby clash at the Emirates. The 3-1 Capital One Cup victory over Nottingham Forest will certainly come in handy, but it may be important to note it was achieved with a second-string line-up. While the back line has done fairly well so far, Spurs have major issues in the build up play, which has resulted in their attackers Adebayor, Soldado and Lamela scoring just one goal between them. On the other hand, important midfielders Eriksen and Dembele are still struggling for form, so it is perfectly clear Tottenham will have to show a massive improvement if they want to avoid defeat at the Emirates. A number of first team regulars will be recalled to the starting line-up, with Kyle Walker the only player on the sidelines.

Conclusion

Arsenal seem to be raising their form, showing a lot of improvement in attack, and they have got to be considered favourites to win the fourth North London derby in a row. Tottenham, on the other hand, are far from the desired form and with their attackers misfiring at the moment, I cannot see how Spurs are going to get anything from this game.

Verdict: Home win Arsenal (1)

Best Odds: 4/5

Bookmaker: William Hill