Alan Smith issues bold prediction for Arsenal vs Tottenham North London Derby

A North London derby is one of the most high-profile fixtures of the Premier League season, given the fierce rivalry between Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur. Arsenal enter the clash at the top of the table, holding a four-point lead over Manchester City. Mikel Arteta’s side have won four of their last five matches, with the only setback being a draw against Sunderland in their most recent league game, and they head into this derby in confident form.

Tottenham, by contrast, have been inconsistent, recording two wins, two losses, and a draw in their last five Premier League matches. In their most recent outing, Spurs came from behind to take the lead against Manchester United, only for De Ligt’s late goal to earn a point, leaving Thomas Frank’s side with a sense of missed opportunity.

Former Arsenal striker Alan Smith has offered his prediction for the fixture, believing Arsenal hold the advantage due to recent form and Tottenham’s injury and fitness concerns. Speaking to BestBettingSites.co.uk, Smith said:

“Arsenal are strong and will be looking to bounce back after Sunderland. Spurs are in a strange place where you never quite know what you are going to get — it has been lacklustre. Against Man United, they underperformed. Too many players are struggling: Xavi Simons is finding it difficult, Kolo Muani isn’t fully match fit, and Telles has struggled to settle.

“With injuries to Solanke, Kulusevski, and Maddison, they are finding it hard to challenge teams, create chances, and score goals. I don’t see them having enough. But it’s a derby, so the gap can close in such matches. Even so, I don’t expect Arsenal to be troubled too much.”

Tottenham have not beaten Arsenal in their last six meetings, with their most recent win coming on 12 May 2022, a record that gives Arteta’s side added confidence. Injuries could influence the outcome, as both teams have dealt with fitness issues during the season. Arsenal, for instance, face doubts over Gabriel and Calafiori ahead of the derby. Despite this, their defense has been resilient, keeping multiple clean sheets, though any disruption in the back four could provide Spurs with opportunities to exploit.