This starting line-up is very capable of taking care of Spurs but a surprise is expected

 By Danong

After that minor setback against Sunderland, where Arsenal dropped two points in a 2-2 draw just before the November international break, the Gunners will be determined to respond in style.  

And what better way to do so than against their noisy neighbours, Tottenham Hotspur.  

On Sunday night, Arsenal welcome Spurs to the Emirates for the first North London derby of the season. The stadium has long been a difficult hunting ground for Tottenham, and Arsenal will be eager to ensure it remains that way.  

History certainly favours the hosts. In 23 visits, the Lilywhites have suffered 14 defeats, drawn seven times, and managed only two victories. Facing an Arsenal side who sit deservedly at the top of the league and are charging towards the title, Sunday evening promises to be a frustrating occasion for Spurs fans.  

Of course, Mikel Arteta must contend with the absence of Gabriel Magalhaes, while doubts linger over the availability of Martin Odegaard, Gabriel Martinelli, and Kai Havertz. Viktor Gyokeres also remains a doubt.  

In any case if someone of those players makes it then the bench will most probably be where they sit.

Tottenham, meanwhile, have their own injury woes. James Maddison, Dejan Kulusevski, Radu Drăgușin, and Archie Gray are all ruled out, while Lucas Bergvall is a doubt after picking up a knock on international duty.  

That said, Arsenal can take encouragement from the return of Gabriel Jesus. At the same time, Ricardo Calafiori and Jurrien Timber, who were injury doubts during the break, are expected to be available for selection.  

That said, should Arteta decide to go strong without Gabriel, he could not go stronger than:  

Raya  
Timber, Saliba, Hincapie, Calafiori  
Zubimendi, Rice, Eze  
Saka, Merino, Trossard

The inclusion of Hincapie is preferred as he is left footed thus restoring the balance in the centre of Arsenal's defence. He is also more combative than Mosquera which is an asset that may be of essence in such a derby.

Merino will come in for Gyökeres...if the latter is declared not fit. But will he? With Arteta you never know.

But this XI should be more than capable of getting the job done, restoring Arsenal’s momentum and setting them up perfectly for the looming clashes with Bayern Munich and Chelsea.