Mikel Arteta might be trying to play things down, but this is a huge week for Arsenal. The Gunners have three away trips that could, even at this early stage, define their season.
They kick off their Champions League campaign at Atalanta this coming Thursday before travelling to Manchester City on Sunday. Before that though, it’s the North London Derby.
Ahead of such a big week, Arteta would probably like to have his strongest team available. Unfortunately, the football gods have different ideas.
Summer signing Mikel Merino is definitely out with a shoulder problem, while Declan Rice is suspended after his harsh red card against Brighton. To add to that there is a huge doubt over Martin Odegaard after he sustained an ankle injury while on international duty with Norway. Riccardo Calafiori’s availability is also uncertain after a calf problem picked up with Italy.
With all that going on, Arteta has a huge selection headache as he seeks to face the biggest game of Arsenal’s season so far with one hand tied behind his back. Here, football.london takes a look at who the Spaniard might pick in his starting XI.
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Goalkeeper – David Raya
Amid all this uncertainty, Arsenal will be glad to have David Raya’s dependability. That said though, the Spaniard was at fault in this fixture last year.. -
Right-back – Ben White
As his decision not to play for England continues, Ben White has essentially had two weeks to rest in this international break. He should be raring to go against Spurs. -
Centre-back – William Saliba
William Saliba is establishing himself as a key player for France and started both of their games over the international break. He has already established himself as such at Arsenal and will continue that against Spurs. -
Centre-back – Gabriel
Gabriel Magalhaes has started the season in superb form. He’ll want to continue that against Spurs. -
Left-back – Jurrien Timber
There’s something about Arsenal left-backs and injuries… Riccardo Calafiori is the latest to be struck down. Jurrien Timber is fit, though, and should start at Spurs.
