The North London derby is one of those unforgiving fixtures that are truly season-defining. Of course, Tottenham’s fate won’t be decided by just one game, but the message sent out from how you fare against a bitter enemy is significant and will affect the mood both inside and outside the club. A side that can beat Arsenal at the Emirates is one to be treated accordingly.
Postecoglou has certainly got the boys playing with a greater sense of purpose and in a more attacking style, but the real issue in this game getting the balance right between defence and attack, to which end I’ve opted to select Emerson Royal over Pedro Porro. Porro is a solid enough player and has been attractive in his attacking play, but defensively not as tight as Romero, Van de Ven, and Udogie.
Spurs need to win, and the best backline needs to be picked.
![](https://icdn.theboyhotspur.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Screenshot-2023-09-24-at-10.47.15.jpg)