‘That’s my only worry’: Robbie Keane says Tottenham have an Achilles heel that Arsenal could now exploit
Tottenham Hotspur are gearing up for another intense North London derby against Arsenal. Both teams face significant challenges leading into the clash at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, especially after failing to secure wins in their last games before the international break.
The pressure is building on both sides, but the personnel issues facing Tottenham and Arsenal add another layer of complexity to the game. With key players either ruled out or doubtful, the stage is set for a tightly contested derby.
Several notable players from both teams are expected to miss the match or arrive in less-than-optimal condition.
Tottenham’s Richarlison and Yves Bissouma are major concerns for manager Ange Postecoglou, while Arsenal are dealing with the possible absence of their captain, Martin Odegaard, along with midfielders like Mikel Merino and defenders such as Takehiro Tomiyasu and Kieran Tierney.
To make matters worse for Arsenal, Declan Rice will miss the match due to suspension, further weakening their midfield options.
Despite these absences, there is a sense of uncertainty surrounding the match, even from Arsenal-leaning pundits like Paul Merson, who suggested that the result could go either way.
Merson acknowledged the challenges posed by the fixture and hinted at how unpredictable it could be, with neither side showing complete dominance in recent games.
Robbie Keane, a former Tottenham fan favorite, also weighed in on the upcoming derby, offering insights into what he sees as potential vulnerabilities for Spurs. Speaking on the Seaman Says podcast, Keane expressed concerns about Tottenham’s tendency to play with a high defensive line, a strategy that has become a hallmark of Postecoglou’s style.
While the approach allows for aggressive and entertaining football, it also opens the door for opponents, particularly Arsenal, to exploit gaps and create goal-scoring opportunities.
Keane admitted that he’s unsure which version of Tottenham will show up for the match, reflecting the inconsistency that has plagued Spurs so far this season.
While Tottenham’s high line is exciting to watch, Keane pointed out that against a well-organized and efficient team like Arsenal, it could backfire.
The risk of leaving space behind the defense is one that Arsenal’s attackers could easily exploit, making the match a potential minefield for Spurs.
Despite these concerns, Tottenham’s hope lies in their ability to press high and create chances through their dynamic forward play.
Postecoglou will be crossing his fingers that key players like Micky van de Ven, who missed the recent loss to Newcastle and withdrew from international duty, will be fit and ready to shore up the defense.
Additionally, the return of Dominic Solanke, who has been sidelined for the last two games, would provide a much-needed boost in attack. Solanke’s presence up front could help Spurs press Arsenal’s defense, and his knack for finishing could turn the tide in Tottenham’s favor.
On the other hand, Arsenal are grappling with their own injury woes. Martin Odegaard, who has been instrumental in their midfield, is a serious doubt due to an ankle injury.
His absence would be a significant blow to the Gunners, as he’s been central to their creative play. Along with Odegaard, Arsenal may also be without Mikel Merino, a key figure in their midfield engine, and defenders like Takehiro Tomiyasu and Kieran Tierney, both of whom are sidelined due to injuries.
Further complicating things for Arsenal is the fitness of Gabriel Jesus, who has been struggling with a groin issue.
Jesus, when fit, has the ability to turn matches in Arsenal’s favor with his skill and clinical finishing, but his condition remains uncertain.
Additionally, Riccardo Calafiori suffered a knock while on international duty with Italy, adding to Arsenal’s defensive worries. Declan Rice’s suspension also leaves Arsenal’s midfield significantly weakened, making their task in the North London derby all the more daunting.
Ultimately, the North London derby will come down to which team can better manage their injury crises and make the most of the opportunities that arise during the game.
Tottenham will be eager to break their losing streak against Arsenal at home, while Arsenal will look to maintain their solid defensive form.
The high stakes, combined with the long-standing rivalry, make this match one of the most highly anticipated fixtures of the season.
For Spurs, a win could serve as a springboard to greater consistency in the league, while for Arsenal, securing victory would reinforce their strong start to the campaign. With both teams having a lot to prove and missing key players, it promises to be a thrilling, high-pressure encounter.
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