Alan Smith says Arsenal should exploit Spurs duo Emerson and Romero

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Arsenal legend and regular commentator for Sky, Alan Smith, has made a prediction that new Spurs duo Emerson Royal and Cristian Romero could be a weakness this weekend.

Spurs and Arsenal meet in what could be a hugely important North London Derby. Since the international break, Nuno Santo’s side have endured a dismal run of form. The Gunners, on the other hand, have won their last two, with clean-sheets in both.

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Both sides will be desperate to lay down a marker. And with the season not promising much for either side as things stand, bragging rights could be a bigger thing than ever for fans.

And Smith, who was writing for Sky Sports ahead of the game, believes Spurs’ new signings could come unstuck if Arsenal get it right.

“Tottenham have got a couple of new boys in Emerson Royal and Cristian Romero. And that might be an area that Arsenal can exploit, perhaps down the left flank,” Smith said.

“Just like Spurs, that’s the strength for Arsenal: the creative players they’ve got. They’ve got energy, ideas, real talent there.”

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta does have options down that side should he choose to go for it. Bukayo Saka can play there, as can Aubameyang and Emile Smith Rowe.

TBR’s View: Prediction for Arsenal and Spurs could be right from Smith

It’s early days, but it’s safe to say that the new Spurs signings haven’t exactly looked brilliant. Romero looks like he might adapt well enough.

But in Emerson Royal – a player Arsenal looked at themselves – they have someone who is looking rocky already.

Smith, then, is right to point this out. The Gunners can and probably should look to put them under pressure. Especially Emerson. If they can get the Spurs defence on the back foot quickly, then Arsenal will soon find momentum you feel.