Former Arsenal player admits Daniel Levy have pulled off the signing of the summer at Tottenham

Tottenham Hotspur face their fierce rivals Arsenal this weekend in what promises to be an intense North London Derby.

Both teams are facing the challenge of injuries despite being just a few games into the 2024/25 season. Arsenal will be without Declan Rice due to his suspension from a red card, which will impact their midfield during the short trip to Tottenham’s home ground.

However, Tottenham have their own injury concerns heading into this crucial clash. One of the most talked-about players in Spurs’ summer transfer window has been Dominic Solanke.

Although Solanke has not had much game time due to an injury sustained in the opening game of the season, former Arsenal forward Theo Walcott believes he could be the standout signing of the summer.

According to Walcott, Solanke’s move to Tottenham may fly under the radar, but it could prove to be incredibly impactful for the team over the course of the season.

Tottenham made five key signings during the summer transfer window. Two of these, Timo Werner on loan and Yang Min-hyeok, will not fully integrate into the squad immediately, with Min-hyeok arriving only in January.

The three other signings, including Solanke, have the potential to make a significant impact, but Solanke’s role has been curtailed by injury.

Walcott, speaking to Now TV, highlighted the £65m signing as one of the Premier League’s underrated transfers this season.

Walcott expressed his admiration for Solanke’s performances at Bournemouth, stating that the striker now has the opportunity to flourish at Tottenham, surrounded by better players.

He specifically mentioned James Maddison, whose creativity could help unlock Solanke’s full potential. Walcott went on to say that he was surprised Solanke didn’t make the England squad last season given his goal-scoring prowess at Bournemouth, but believes the striker’s move to Tottenham gives him a much larger platform to showcase his abilities.

Solanke’s return to fitness could not come soon enough for Tottenham. Although they cruised to a 4-0 victory over Everton in their first home game of the season, the absence of a recognized striker was evident in their recent 2-1 defeat to Newcastle United.

Despite creating several clear-cut chances, Spurs were left to regret their missed opportunities, as Newcastle capitalized on their chances and secured all three points.

Solanke’s absence, along with Richarlison’s struggles with injury, has left Tottenham without a focal point in attack.

This issue could prove decisive in the upcoming North London Derby, where having a fit and firing striker could be the difference between victory and defeat.

Spurs will hope that Solanke recovers in time for the match, as his presence could provide the cutting edge they need to overcome their rivals.

For Tottenham, this derby represents more than just local bragging rights; it is an opportunity to build momentum early in the season and stake their claim as genuine contenders for a top-four finish.

Under Ange Postecoglou, Spurs have shown glimpses of their potential, but consistency remains key. With a healthy squad, including key players like Solanke and Richarlison, Tottenham could have the firepower needed to mount a serious challenge.

Arsenal, on the other hand, are not without their own injury headaches. In addition to Declan Rice’s suspension, they are missing key players in other areas, which could leave them vulnerable in this high-stakes match.

The absence of Rice could disrupt their midfield balance, and Tottenham will need to exploit these weaknesses if they hope to secure a victory.

As both teams prepare for this fierce encounter, the spotlight will be on the tactical approaches of both managers.

Ange Postecoglou has already impressed Spurs fans with his attacking philosophy, and he will need to ensure his side is clinical in front of goal to take advantage of Arsenal’s weakened lineup.

On the other side, Mikel Arteta will be hoping his team can weather the storm and take something from the game despite their injury setbacks.

Ultimately, the North London Derby is always unpredictable, and this weekend’s match promises to be no different. Whether Solanke makes it back in time or not, Tottenham will need to be at their very best to get the better of their bitter rivals.

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