The day of the derby is often the most important day for a football supporter. Historic rivals clash and local bragging rights are up for grabs. Today we are treated with two of the biggest rivalries in English football. The north London derby of Arsenal and Tottenham, two clubs within five miles of each other, as well as the historic rivalry of Manchester United and Liverpool, the two most successful British clubs ever.
Over the years Arsenal and Tottenham have shared some great games and this game should be no different, especially with them both fighting for a place in the Champions League next season. They have had very different summers; Tottenham have spent big, with the money they expect to receive for outgoing star Gareth Bale. While Arsenal have been, quiet in their transfer business (to put it lightly). Tottenham’s new signings will be looking forward to their first North London derby, while Arsenal have a lot of pressure on them to perform, both will know what is required.
The game will be played at The Emirates, where Tottenham have lost 5-2 in their last two trips. This is the highest scoring fixture in the Premier League, with 124 goals, it is likely that this total will increase today. Podolski, Arteta, Vermaelen, Diaby and Oxlade-Chamberlain are all out with injury for Arsenal, while Tottenham will be missing Assou-ekotto, Adebayor and possibly Lennon.
My prediction – Tottenham win 3-2
Manchester United and Liverpool are historic rivals – they are the most successful English clubs and are traditional football rivals. This is the biggest fixture of the year for most of the players involved, despite Liverpool’s recent decline. This could be a battle between two inform strikers; Van Persie, last seasons golden boot winner and possibly the best centre forward in the world, against Sturridge, Liverpool’s man on form.
David Moyes will be hoping for his first win at Anfield, with his new club. In the last five seasons Manchester United have only won once (last season) in this fixture. Kolo Toure, Joe Allen and Aly Cissokho are all expected to miss the game for Liverpool. Manchester United are expected to have Hernandez, Evans, Rafael and Nani missing for this clash.
My prediction – Liverpool win 2-1 (yes, I am a Liverpool fan)
These should be two very tight games with all sides looking for maximum points and bragging rights for the season. It is still early in the season, so this will be a good chance to measure where the teams are at and what we can expect this season.
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