Saturday, April 21, 2007

Match Preview: Tottenham v Arsenal

Yes, folks its that time again; North London Derby Day has arrived. And if The Mighty Gunners avoid defeat today, then it will time to celebrate the already inevitable St Totteringham's Day. Arsenal have started to find some form, with two wins on the bounce against Bolton and Man City respectively. Spurs on the other hand are slipping further down the table. A good run a few weeks back has turned into disaster for our neighbours, as they need a win to stay in contention for 7th place, the final UEFA Cup spot.

And there is constant good news on the injury front for Arsene Wenger's side. Potential doubts: Freddie Ljungberg, Abou Diaby and Cesc Fabregas have seemed to have shaken off their knocks, as the gaffer has named the three midfielders in the squad. Of course, having Fabregas back is a huge relief. He has been instrumental for us this season and has also bagged two goals in his last two games. The same goes for Tomas Rosicky who is blossoming in the limelight at the moment, and is showing why Mr Wenger was so keen to sign him. I always knew Tomas would be great for us and he is starting to properly find his feet in the Premiership. Tottenham will be relieved to have inspirational captain, Ledley King back, as well as promising midfielder, Tom Huddlestone. Robbie Keane is a doubt, so Martin Jol (aka Shrek) is likely to choose Jermain Defoe to partner Dimitar Berbatov up front.

Despite constantly praising Fabregas, I think the poor lad needs a rest - perhaps revealing a starting place for 19 year old Brazilian midfielder, Denilson. I think our current 4-5-1 formation is working, as Adebayor is proving to be such an important player, as he excels in that lone striker role. But the Togo striker is well overdue a goal so could get one today. On the other hand, Ade has scored in 2 of the last three meetings between the North London rivals. Both goals coming at The Emirates, in wins in the Premiership and Carling Cup. But Julio Baptista will be pushing for a starting spot, after coming off the bench and bagging a goal on Tuesday. Who would have thought we'd have so many options; even without Henry and Van Persie.

Form Guide:
Tottenham: DDLLW
Arsenal: WWDLL

Last Encounter:
Arsenal 3-0 Tottenham (Adebayor, Gilberto 2)

Team Prediction:
----------------------------------Lehmann-----------------------------------
Eboue---------------------Toure-----------Gallas----------------------Clichy
----------------------------------Gilberto------------------------------------
Hleb---------------------Denilson----------Diaby---------------------Rosicky
---------------------------------Adebayor------------------------------------

Score Prediction:
Tottenham 2-3 Arsenal (Berbatov, King, Adebayor, Hleb, Eboue)

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