Ex-Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Petit says he doesn’t expect his former club to secure the three points in the North London derby on Sunday.
The World Cup winner claims the fact that Tottenham have had a full week’s rest could help them take a draw from the match at the Emirates
“Spurs aren’t playing in Europe this season, so they’ll be rested. They’re full of confidence right now. Richarlison looks a lot more confident. They’ll have the advantage of a lighter schedule, and the game will be a big test for Arsenal. I’ve been impressed with Spurs so far. I’d bet for a draw. There are always goals with Arsenal and Spurs – I’d say 2-2.”
It’s a fair point that Petit makes about both teams’ fitness heading into the game. The Gunners did play against PSV on Wednesday night so they may have less energy than their opponents.
Even so, the centre-back partnership of William Saliba and Gabriel has been outstanding in recent matches and it would be surprising if they conceded 2 goals at home.
Arsenal may consider rotating some players
In order to freshen things up for the derby, manager Mikel Arteta could make a few adjustments to the starting lineup that played against PSV midweek, despite how convincing they were in that 4-0 win.
Fabio Vieira could be in line for a recall, and the likes of Emile Smith Rowe and Jorginho looked decent when they came off the bench in the Champions League so they could, potentially, be considered for selection too. There is also an important decision on who will start in goal.
Arteta will, of course, be hesitant about making too many changes from a winning team but, with so many matches being played in such a short period of time, rotation will be needed, even when facing Spurs.
