Who Should Start for Arsenal When They Take On Rivals Tottenham

One the fiercest Premier League encounters is Arsenal vs Tottenham. Usually always thrilling encounters in which from a neutral point of view are superb to watch. This season will be no different. Neither side managed to win when these to met twice last season, so every one is hoping that a clear winner is evident.

An inform Tottenham up against an inform, home Arsenal. It is sure to be a tantalizing encounter. So who should start for Arsenal?

Defenders

Expect to see the usual strong back four of consistent performer Bacary Sagna at right back, Frenchmen William Gallas and Belgium enforcer Thomas Vermaelen in the middle and Frenchmen Gael Clichy on the left.

The main hype is around who will be starting keeper for Arsenal. Poland's Lukas Fabianski featured mid week in the Carling Cup so he is unlikely to play so it is a toss up between Italian Vito Mannone and Spainard Manuel Almunia. Almunia has not featured since a niggling chest injury and Vito Mannone has been standing in.

The youngster has not been to disappointing. A few costly errors here and there but all in all proved to be a solid back up. However, rumour has it Almunia is fit, firing and confident and likely to get the nod from Arsene Wenger.

Midfielders

The Arsenal midfield will need to perform if Arsenal want bragging rights and the all important three points. Tottenham do boast a strong midfield so it will be vital the middle men perform in both attack and defence.

Arsene Wenger is likely to play three across the middle that should consist of captain Cesc Fabregas, who will play a more attacking role. Alexandre Song with the defensive duties, and most likely Abou Diaby playing on the left providing height and power.

Samir Nasri, who made his comeback from a broken leg in the League Cup clash with Liverpool, is likely to start from the bench, the same with Tomas Rosicky.

Forwards

The Arsenal front line have been impressive this season and will look to continue there strong form against Tottenham. Arsene is likely to play a frontman and then two wingers.

Robin van Persie will undoubtedly feature in the middle as the main striker. The Dutchmen is in magnificent form with six goals from 12 appearances this term. He will be eager to make his mark on the North London Derby.

Russian magican Andrei Arshavin, who is also in fine form, is likely to feature on the left and either Emmanuel Eboue, Eduardo Da Silva, Nicklas Bendtner starting on the right. Eboue the likelyest.

Bench

With seven places up for grabs, Vito Mannone will take the keeper role, Mikeal Silvestre and Kieran Gibbs the defensive roles and the rest likely to consist of Samir Nasri, Tomas Rosicky, Nicklas Bendtner and Eduardo. Aaron Ramsey may be a late addition.

A great rivalry which is sure to mean a stunning game.