Tottenham players Arsenal will need to be really careful about in North London derby

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Tottenham Hotspur host Arsenal in the North London derby after the international break and this fixture is already massive for both teams.

Spurs have made a sluggish start to the season having taken just four points from their first three matches. Ange Postecoglou’s side were held to a 1-1 draw with Leicester in their opener before thrashing Everton 4-0 at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

However, their momentum was halted in its tracks as Newcastle United managed to defeat them just before the international break. The Lilywhites dominated proceedings at St James’ Park but ultimately failed to make it pay as they spurned numerous chances.

Arsenal were also frustrated just before the break as they were held to a 1-1 draw with Brighton. The Seagulls managed to snatch a point as they took full advantage of Declan Rice being dismissed for a second yellow card.

Mikel Arteta’s side now face a tough run of games they go away to Tottenham, Atalanta and Manchester City. Ahead of their trip across North London, here are three players they must be wary of.

Dominic Solanke

Tottenham are hopeful that Dominic Solanke will be fit to face Arsenal after the forward missed the club’s last two matches with an ankle injury.

The striker made his Spurs debut in their 1-1 draw with Leicester and although he didn’t score he looked a real handful.

The 27-year-old will now be keen to prove his worth against Tottenham’s biggest rivals in the North London derby. It will also be his first appearance in N17 wearing Lilywhite, so the motivation is there for him to announce his arrival.

Postecoglou’s side certainly missed Solanke against Newcastle. They had 20 attempts at goal, however, a Dan Burn own goal was the only time they found the back of the net. If they can create a similar number of opportunities for the striker in the derby, he will surely find the back of the net at least once.

Micky van de Ven

Micky van de Ven is another player set to make his return from injury in the North London derby. The defender has been struggling with a knee injury he suffered against Everton.

Tottenham will certainly need his pace on the weekend when playing such a high line against the likes of Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli and Raheem Sterling.

Alexander Isak and Newcastle’s attack exposed Spurs’ weaknesses without the Dutchman in their defence as they easily got in behind for the winning goal. Van de Ven’s recovery speed will therefore be key for helping stop Arsenal on September 15.

Dejan Kulusevski

Dejan Kulusevski has been in terrific form recently and particularly impressed over the international break for Sweden.

Kulusevski looked strong in a central role for Sweden and earned praise from the national press. Postecoglou must look to fit the forward into a central area whether that be instead or alongside James Maddison.

After a tricky campaign last year, the 24-year-old looks to have his confidence back and if he’s played in the right role, he could be dangerous against Arsenal.