Paul Merson has claimed that even though we are only in September, it will be a big blow to Arsenal’s title hopes if they are not able to beat Tottenham Hotspur at home next Sunday.
The North London derby promises to be a cracker, with both sides coming into the game unbeaten and sitting tied on 12 points.
While Arsenal have continued picking up results despite delivering some lacklustre displays, Tottenham have surprised many with the eye-catching and enterprising football that they have played under Ange Postecoglou so far this season.
The Gunners undoubtedly go into the game as favourites, particularly given their impressive record at the Emirates against their fierce rivals, but Postecoglou’s men will look to take the game to the home side.
(Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images)
This could be a make-or-break week for Arsenal
Arsenal have another big game coming up against Manchester City at the start of October and Merson believes that his former side can kiss their title hopes goodbye if they lose those two big games.
The pundit told Sky Sports: “Arsenal haven’t really got going and they’ve won four and drawn one. Everybody is like that, even Man City are not perfect.
“Fulham had chances against them, West Ham had them on the rack the other day. They were 1-0 up and Ederson was there making world-class saves.
“But if Arsenal lose their two big games, they won’t win the league, it’s as simple as that. If they lose to Tottenham and Man City, then they’re out of the title race by the start of October.
“Last season, if Arsenal had won one of those games against Manchester City – and they had them on the ropes in that home game in February – then they would have won the league.”
Spurs Web Opinion
The pressure is definitely on Arsenal as they are expected to be Man City’s closest challengers to the title once again. For Tottenham, this match is essentially a free hit and I am excited to see us try and take the game to the Gunners.
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