Robin Van Persie is back in the squad but is likely to take a seat next to Arsene Wenger on the bench while Nicklas Bendtner who picked up the groin injury that ruled him out for a large chunk of the season
Chelsea managed to get all the decisions last night and their 1-0 victory over a spirited Bolton side gives the West Londoners the advantage in the title race.
The pressure has now been shifted across to the Arsenal who will be desperate to cling onto the coat tails of the leaders. Tottenham are also fighting against the tide in the battle for fourth. This North London derby has plenty riding on it and that is without taking into account the usual pride for each set of fans.
Both teams have to shake off the negativity of the last match, Arsenal were beaten by the better side in Barcelona whilst Tottenham were also beaten by the better and stronger side at Wembley. Tottenham still have some way to go before they can challenge the likes of Portsmouth football club in the chase for honours.
Jokes aside, the poorer side of North London will want to make a better fist of it than they did at the Emirates when the caved in, in the matter of seconds. Van Persie and then Cesc wrapped up the points with our opponents stunned.
Robin Van Persie is back in the squad but is likely to take a seat next to Arsene Wenger on the bench while Nicklas Bendtner who picked up the groin injury that ruled him out for a large chunk of the season in that game at the Emirates, should keep his place as the lead striker after a run of good goalscoring form.
Alex Song continues the current Arsenal trend of important players missing through injury and that is a major blow for the squad. Alex Song is a player who stamps his authority in games like this and has the ability to wrestle games in our favour, there is no point crying over spilt milk in this case and we will have to hope that Denilson can continue where he left off in the first leg against Barcelona. No doubt that this will be a more physical encounter, played at a quick pace but we have to hope that the whole team help each other to dominate the game.
Emmanuel Eboue may be used in an attacking position in the front three, given the extra minutes that Tottenham have played over the weekend, I wouldn’t be surprised if Arsene was saving Walcott to come off the bench as the game drags on. Eboue hasn’t started for a few weeks now and his energy and defensive tendencies will be needed.
One to watch: Emmanuel Eboue
Eboue may not even start the game but if he does then the Gareth Bale vs Emmanuel Eboue battle may be key for both sides. Bale is in good form of late, and I am guessing that the losing streak with Bale in the side has ended. Bale will be looking to attack and put in crosses to Peter Crouch. Bacary Sagna and Emmanuel Eboue will have to push Bale the other way and see if he can defend.
Mean Lean’s Predicted Line Up
With the squad ravaged with injuries, Wenger’s choices are somewhat limited. The main choices will be Theo Walcott or Emmanuel Eboue on the right. Eduardo is an option that can play wide or central but I would imagine that he will start on the bench.
Youngsters such as Eastmond, Vela and Traore could get the chance on the bench if needed.
Mean Lean’s Match Prediction
Tottenham 0 Arsenal 1 (Bendtner)
It is going to be a tough game with both sets of players wanting victory, it should make for an entertaining match. Harry Redknapp keeps banging on about how the two clubs are not far away, now is the time to prove him wrong.
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