3 keys to an Arsenal victory in Saturday’s North London Derby

3. Must be perfect in defensive transition

There is a multitude of tactical sub-plots to analyse in the build-up to Saturday’s derby. The most significant, though, is how well Arsenal perform in defensive transition. If they’re to avenge May’s chastening defeat, the Gunners must stop Harry Kane and Son Heung-min.

The Lilywhite duo have been the bane of Arsenal for many years and together, they’ve combined for 18 North London derby goals. Kane is the highest-scoring player in this fixture, while Son enters Saturday’s bout having rediscovered his most destructive form. After scoring a rapid hat-trick against Leicester, Son scored twice for South Korea during the break.

How Arteta goes about slowing the tandem down will be so intriguing. Thomas Partey will likely screen passes into Kane with Gabriel tracking, while William Saliba will attempt to man-mark Son. Arsenal’s high defensive line means Spurs could have a field day if the hosts aren’t aggressive enough, but the backline has functioned well so far and Saliba has the talent to nullify Son.

Shackling the pair early will be important, but Arsenal must be wary of the third attacking option in Conte’s arsenal (again, presuming the 3-4-3 is retained). Dejan Kulusevski is an injury doubt, which means Richarlison should get the nod. The Brazilian isn’t as technically secure as the Swede, and Spurs may struggle to get up the pitch as a result, but he’s a major threat in the box and he’s savvy enough to buy fouls and bypass pressure with a clever flick or dummy.

This is a game Arsenal are expected to dominate on home soil, but Spurs are so organised defensively under Conte and their threat in transition will remain throughout. It’ll only take one misstep for the Gunners to be punished. Arteta’s structure will be key to nullifying the visitors and if they’re successful in this regard, it’d be hugely surprising to see Spurs walk away with anything.