Pre-Match talk Arsenal V Tottenham

So Saturday lunch time; Arsenal take on Spurs at the Emirates stadium for what is sure to be a breathtaking match of attacking football; both teams have been in something close to good form at the start of the season. Though their last fixtures were not entirely satisfactory encounters; Arsenal throwing away a two goal lead in the process of drawing with West ham while spurs went down 0-1 at home to a robust Stoke city side.

The kids that did Arsenal proud during the week in the carling cup with a brand of football emblematic of all that is Arsenal will be given a pat on the back as most of them will not feature in the squad for this game. Fans I'm sure will be hoping that someday Eastmond will be able to display panache beyond his years along side Ramsey's midfield displays of virtuoso and Merida's exquisite displays in a North London derby but not just yet.

The manager indeed does have decision to make in goal, Almunia might be set for a return after Fabianski's injury but the manager might decide to stick with the inexperienced Mannone who has so far kept one clean sheet which came with super human efforts at Fulham. The defence picks itself; though Wenger has to decide between Sagna and Eboue at right back. The manager would have been pleased with the mid week displays of Senderos and Silvestre, hopefully when needed during the season they will do a good job.

In midfield, it's likely to be the usual three - Song, Cesc and Diaby - Nasri played quite well in mid-week but it will be a surprise if he goes with him from the start, but if he does then most fans would expect Diaby to make way; that doesn't suggest Diaby has been poor this season, he has done a quietly good job.

In attack, it's likely to be Arshavin, Van Persie joined by either Bendtner or Eduardo; indeed the manager could go for Eboue in this position as well.
For Tottenham, there are quite a few problems at the back, King is doubtful so is Woodgate, but Bassong would feature. In midfield Lennon will not be available which could suggest an easier time for Clichy who has not reached his usual standards yet; there have been suggestions Bentley might get a start - he did score "that goal" in this fixture last season - while upfront expect Keane Defoe and Crouch.

I expect a big game from Arshavin, he always turns up for big games and this is one of such occasions. Fabregas is one to keep a keen eye on; he seems to be picking his games this season, well I hope he picks this one then.
Crouch could test Vermealen's very impressive ability in the air; while keeping Defoe from scoring could go a long way towards winning this game for Arsenal.

I expect an Arsenal win; Arshavin and Van Persie to get on the score sheet while Defoe might get on the score sheet for Spurs.