Premier League preview: Tottenham v Arsenal

Tottenham will take an unusual feeling into their north London derby on Sunday, entering the clash with Arsenal as warm favourites.

Spurs will fancy their chances at White Hart Lane against a weakened and inconsistent Arsenal side still reeling from the loss of players such as Cesc Fabregas, Samir Nasri and Gael Clichy.

Both sides were victorious in midweek European fixtures, yet failed to put on convincing displays.

Arsenal beat Olympiakos 2-1 in the Champions League, while Spurs fought back from a goal down to beat Shamrock Rovers 3-1 in Europa League action.

The most recent clashes between the fierce rivals have produced plenty of goals, with 11 scored in last season’s two meetings.

Spurs produced a memorable fightback to beat Arsenal 3-2 at the Emirates, before they again came from two goals down to earn a 3-3 draw at White Hart Lane.

Arsenal’s last league victory over their local rivals was a 3-0 triumph in October 2009 – Spurs’ only loss in their past six league derbies with the Gunners.

In selection news, injuries have rocked the Arsenal squad, with Gervinho, Johan Djourou, Theo Walcott, Yossi Benayoun, Thomas Vermaelen, Sebastien Squillaci and Jack Wilshere all sidelined.

Spurs also have concerns, with injuries to William Gallas, Niko Kranjcar, Tom Huddlestone and Michael Dawson.

Aaron Lennon returned from a groin injury in their win over Rovers in midweek, and is likely to be in the squad at the weekend.