Arsenal v Tottenham preview: Team news, lineups, predictions
Tottenham are set to take on Arsenal in their first meeting since Thomas Frank stepped into the role of manager.
Spurs’ clash against Arsenal is expected to be their first real test since Frank became manager.
The North London club have played three pre-season fixtures before heading into this contest and have shown some real promise. However, Tottenham’s goalless draw against Luton Town last week indicates that there is still work to be done.
As a result, all eyes will be on the Dane, who will be hoping to end his first game against the rival club with a bang.
Tottenham team news
Frank should have most of his squad available, with James Maddison returning to full training after nursing a knee injury.
Dominic Solanke started in the victory over Reading earlier this month but was sidelined last week due to a minor ankle injury.
It was hoped Solanke would be available to face the Gunners, but he was absent from their training session ahead of the game.
Dejan Kulusevski is also ruled out and not expected to return in time for the new season, while Lucas Bergvall returned for the clash against Wycombe at Hotspur Way.
Kota Takai, Manor Solomon and Destiny Udogie have not travelled due to injury problems, while Alfie Devine, Dane Scarlett and Mikey Moore have stayed back to explore potential loan moves.
Predicted Tottenham lineup
Frank could start new signing Mohammed Kudus over Brennan Johnson after his stunning display during the past couple of fixtures.
Meanwhile, Mathys Tel and Son Heung-min may line up beside him to complete Spurs’ lethal front three.
George Abbott could be given a shock start in the midfield next to Rodrigo Bentancur and Pape Matar Sarr after recently signing a new contract at Tottenham.
Djed Spence is expected to fill in for Udogie while Mick van de Ven and Cristian Romero will make up the Lilywhites centre-back duo, with Pedro Porro retaining his starting right-back spot.
Prediction: Arsenal 3-1 Tottenham
While Frank will be eager to start his introduction to the North London derby on the right foot, victory will be difficult to come by.
The Gunners have begun their pre-season well with victories against AC Milan and Newcastle, with a stand-out cameo from Max Dowman.
But greater than their performances, there must be consideration for the types of teams both sides have faced.
| Club | W | D | L |
| Arsenal | 4 | 1 | 0 |
| Tottenham | 0 | 1 | 4 |
By no means should the quality of Spurs’ opposition be downplayed, but Arsenal have battled and won against teams who are consistently competing at the highest level. With a manager who has been at the club for a while at the helm, there is no doubt that the Gunners will come into this confrontation better prepared.
Therefore, Tottenham News are predicting a 3-1 victory for Arsenal in a game that will certainly provide frustration and heartbreak for the Lilywhites.
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