Derby day is around the corner, and Thomas Frank will be well aware of the significance this game possesses.
Sunday's bout may be an early-season encounter, but the North London Derby is so often the barometer for progress among supporters. We haven't enjoyed much success against our fiercest rivals as of late, and almost always suffer on our trips to the Emirates, so the current squad has the chance to make a little bit of history on Sunday afternoon, should they claim three points.
Fortunately, Frank has supplied an abundance of positive injury news in the build-up to the contest, but the returns of notable names means the Dane has a few big calls to make in terms of selection.
The starting XI could make or break Frank, and here's how we think he could line us up.
Predicted Tottenham lineup vs. Arsenal (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper & Defenders
Guglielmo Vicario (GK) – This will be one of the easier calls for the boss, with Vicario playing at the Emirates for the first time since 2023, having missed last season's outing through injury.
Pedro Porro (RB) – Porro had a wretched time of it in this fixture last season, and he'll want to get his own back on Leandro Trossard this weekend.
Cristian Romero (CB) – The skipper is one of several Lilywhite stars who must stand up on Sunday if we're to claim a positive result. He's the man for the big occasion.
Micky van de Ven (CB) – Van de Ven has arguably been Spurs' standout performer of the season so far, and it'll be interesting to see how he deals with Arsenal's threat on Sunday. I expect him to offer plenty of cover against Bukayo Saka.
Destiny Udogie (LB) – Udogie has gone toe-to-toe with Saka a couple of times, and the Italian should be relishing the matchup this weekend. It may prove decisive. Udogie has a big role to play in aiding Spurs' dynamics in possession, too.
Midfielders
João Palhinha (CM) – Spurs will have to dig in for periods on enemy territory, but it's for such circumstances that we signed the fire extinguisher in the middle of the park.
Rodrigo Bentancur (CM) – Yes, it's the dreaded partnership, but I don't have too much of an issue with Frank rolling it out for this fixture. Big game away from home? Let the experienced heads do their thing.
Pape Matar Sarr (AM) – Sarr is back in training and Frank has said he's available. That's a huge boost. If we're to replicate the success from the UEFA Super Cup and victory at the Etihad, Sarr is going to have to play a big role on Sunday.
Forwards
Mohammed Kudus (RW) – The Ghanaian is also set to be available for the derby, and he has to be the man to exploit a potential vulnerability in Arsenal's stubborn backline. Kudus is the direct outlet who'll offer us respite and help us gain territory.
Randal Kolo Muani (ST) – The man with the mask. Where have I seen this tale play out before?
Xavi Simons (LW) – I can hear the groans, but Xavi off the left can work with Udogie surging upfield from left-back. He'll be able to occupy his preferred zones infield, and I think this attacking combination could be harmonious. Runner, dribbler, playmaker.