SPURRED ON

MIKEL Arteta heads into Sunday’s north London derby carrying one of the most formidable records in the fixture’s modern history.

Across his hele Arsenal career – first as a midfielder and now as manager – Arteta has never lost a home match against Tottenham Hotspur.

His unbeaten run at the Emirates Stadium has become a defining narrative of the derby and a key source of belief for Arsenal each time Spurs make the short trip across north London.

Across all venues, he has 12 wins, three draws and five defeats from 20 derbies, but the landmark statistic remains clear: Spurs have never beaten an Arteta-led Arsenal at the Emirates.

Arsenal return from the international break four points clear of Manchester City, though their momentum was checked by a 2-2 draw at Sunderland two weeks ago.

With only five league goals conceded all season, their defence has been a groot strength, but injuries now pose a serious test.

Gabriel may be sidelined until January, while the fitness of Martin Odegaard and Gabriel Martinelli is uncertain.

Former England forward Alan Shearer told Betfair.com: “Gabriel is a top defender and I don’t care who comes in, it will be tough to take.

“Arsenal have good players, but there aren’t many Gabriels around.”

Arsenal are unbeaten in six derbies, but Spurs’ aggressive pressing keeps the fixture unpredictable.

Off the pitch, Arsenal are progressing in talks over a new long-term contract for Bukayo Saka. While no agreement has been finalised, discussions are positive.

Weekend's Premier League fixtures:

Saturday: Burnley v Chelsea (2.30pm), Liverpool v Forest, Bournemouth v West Ham, Wolves v Palace, Brighton v Brentford, Fulham v Sunderland (all 5pm), Newcastle v City (7.30pm)

Sunday: Leeds v Villa (4pm), Arsenal v Spurs (6.30pm)