Tactics and Team News: Anticipating the Tottenham vs. Arsenal Showdown with Havertz’s Midfield Move

Derby week can be precarious, yet Tottenham may see their intense match against Arsenal as fortuitously timed. Arsenal’s Declan Rice will be absent for his first Premier League game due to suspension, complicating matters for manager Mikel Arteta.

Following a disappointing 2-1 loss against Newcastle before the international break, Tottenham has otherwise performed decently under the leadership of Ange Postecoglou this season. However, a total of four points is less than ideal given their efforts, as Arsenal seeks to maintain pace with Manchester City, who could extend their lead prior to the match.

Predicted Lineups and Team News for Tottenham vs. Arsenal

Son Heung-min, boasting eight goals in North London derbies, may lead Spurs this weekend as Dominic Solanke recovers from an ankle injury and Richarlison is still out.

Micky van de Ven (knee) and Yves Bissouma, who picked up a knock during international duty, will be evaluated before the match.

Tottenham’s anticipated lineup (4-2-3-1): Vicario (GK)—Porro, Romero, Van de Ven, Udogie—Sarr, Bentancur—Kulusevski, Maddison, Johnson—Son

Injuries: Micky van de Ven, Yves Bissouma, Dominic Solanke (all uncertain), Richarlison
Suspended: None

On the other hand, Arteta would happily swap his midfield injury issues for Postecoglou’s. With Rice suspended after a red card against Brighton, Martin Odegaard (ankle) joins Mikel Merino (shoulder) in the recovery room.

Due to these absences, Kai Havertz, who started strongly as a forward this season, will likely shift to an attacking midfield slot. Gabriel Jesus is expected to take on the striker role if he has sufficiently healed from his groin injury.

Riccardo Calafiori is also sidelined due to a calf injury acquired during international duties, adding to the defensive woes alongside Kieran Tierney (hamstring) and Takehiro Tomiyasu (knee).

Arsenal’s anticipated lineup (4-2-3-1): Raya (GK)—White, Saliba, Gabriel, Timber—Partey, Jorginho—Saka, Havertz, Trossard—Jesus

Injuries: Martin Odegaard, Mikel Merino, Riccardo Calafiori, Kieran Tierney, Takehiro Tomiyasu.
Suspended: Declan Rice

Where to Watch Tottenham vs. Arsenal Live

Here are the viewing options for this Premier League matchup across different regions: