LATEST NEWS: Martin Keown has shared his prediction for the North London derby, noting that Arsenal will be missing several key players.
Keown believes there is “not too much between the two teams” heading into the North London derby, but Arsenal will be without key players.
Declan Rice will miss the trip to Tottenham after being sent off in Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Brighton, and captain Martin Odegaard is doubtful after picking up an injury with Norway.
New signing Riccardo Calafiori also suffered an injury scare on international duty with Italy, and Mikel Merino is likely to miss the game as well.
Former Arsenal captain Keown told talkSPORT, “I like what Spurs are doing—their style of play, the unity in the stadium, and the togetherness.”
He acknowledged the challenge facing Arsenal: “The last time Arsenal went there, it was about stopping them from becoming champions. Now, with a new manager, Spurs are building their own culture and aiming for their own trophies.”
Keown continued, “We have to respect Spurs. It’s tough going there without your best players. Calafiori and Merino are injured, and it’s been an unlucky start for Arsenal.”
Despite the setbacks, Keown emphasizes that Arsenal must “make their own luck” and fight for points in what will be a challenging atmosphere.
While Keown believes the two teams are closely matched, he still backs Arsenal to win: “I’m always going to go with Arsenal. But getting anything at Spurs now is tough; they won’t lose many games at home.”
He added, “It would be a shock if Tottenham won and a huge blow, but I don’t see that happening. Arsenal’s away record, defensive solidity, and number of clean sheets show their champion pedigree.”
Keown concludes that Arsenal’s strong performances away from home give them the edge, despite missing key players for the derby.