Last week, Tottenham Hotspur had the opportunity to put some distance when Arsenal fell 1-0 to Southampton. However, Spurs would lose 1-0 to Brighton & Hove Albion. Since then, Arsenal has picked up two wins over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge and a home win versus Manchester United.
Former Tottenham striker Jermain Defoe stated on Sky Sports that these two wins had played a role in his ex-club feeling the pressure. He added that the results by The Gunners affected the squad. Defoe said that players usually keep track of the races, as he admitted doing so as a player.
“They probably watch the game on a bus or on their phones. You watch the game because I would. I watch the game, and you’re hoping that Arsenal slip up, and all of a sudden you think, oh, we have to win, even though you think that anyway,” Defoe said.
“But at the same time, it’s like just focus on the game. Forget about that after the game. Focus on ourselves. Don’t worry about Arsenal or anyone else. Focus on ourselves and make sure we put in those performances.”
Despite what has occurred, Defoe went on to say that he still believes that Tottenham can finish in the top four and clinch the final UEFA Champions League.
“At the same time, I still feel like more can happen, there’s going to be twists and turns and a lot can happen. But obviously North London Derby is a massive, massive game,” Defoe added.
“But I still feel with this manager and with someone like a Harry Kane and Son with how they’ve played. Forget about the last two games, get these players back to their best. And I still believe Tottenham finishing that top four.”
Next week, Spurs will have a challenging task when they welcome Leicester City to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, and Arsenal is in a London Derby when they go up against West Ham United.