What a difference a week makes. I still think we will likely get beat but at least we go into the game with a renewed optimism as do the players.
Team News
The defence is a problem for Spurs with both King and Woodgate likely to be missing but Gareth Bale returns from his one match ban. Michael Dawson is still suspended.
Redknapp has given squad numbers to Ghaly, Taarabt and Boateng so any of them could now feature.
Denilson has recovered from a back injury and is in contention for Arsenal.
Recent Form
Tottenham ended a nine match winless run in the league beating Bolton on Sunday, which was Harry Redknapp’s first game in charge.
Spurs have not managed back to back victories in the Premier League since December 2007.
Arsenal have only lost 1 of their last 12 games in all competitions.
They have only lost 2 games at the Emirates Stadium.
Head to Head
Tottenham haven’t beaten Arsenal in the league since 7th November 1999.
1998 was the last time there was a goalless draw in this fixture.
Conclusion
Everything points to a comfortable Arsenal victory but form tends to go out the window for this Derby. I’ve seen Spurs nick a draw in this fixture many times when I’ve expected them to get nothing. Can Harry be the first manager from the last 6 to mastermind a win in the league over Arsenal?
I think the key will be not letting in an early goal, the team will gain confidence as the match progresses and might be able to get a goal on the break or from a set piece. The Emirates crowd are quiet at the best of times, even Wenger has said so himself. This must have some effect on the players the longer the game goes without them scoring.
Hull showed Arsenal can be beaten at the Emirates using the right tactics and having no fear. The longer we can contain Arsenal the more chance we will have of getting something out the game.
Best Bets
1pt Tottenham to win 1-0 @ 14/1 with Betfred
1pt 1-1 Draw @ 13/2 with Betfred
Let’s give them another 5-1 hiding!
COYS
Just because you got a new manager and beat Bolton don’t get ahead of yourselves.
easy Arsenal win 3-0.
Now I’m trying my absolute hardest not to put you lot down and talk about your league position, It’s hard, but I’m strong.
We should beat you comfortably tonight, but as usual in this fixture I’m nervous. Not coz you have any players that are better than ours (we all know that’s not the case), but your lot will try to raise their game as you’re playing us and with your new players you could nick a draw.
By the way did any of you lot find out where Haryy’s arsenal tattoo is on his body yet???
YOU’RE BOTTOM OF THE LEAGUE (Shit sorry, that just slipped out hahah)
-Mr Scooch