Upson explains how White moment set the tone for Arsenal in NLD

Matt Upson has told BBC Sport’s Live coverage of Arsenal’s NLD win over Tottenham, that Ben White “set the tone” as Arsenal cruised to victory.

Coming into the game, both sides had endured turbulent starts to 21-22. Injuries and positive tests saw Arsenal lose their first three league games.

However, they came roaring back to beat Burnley and Norwich 1-0. Meanwhile, Spurs won the first three games by the same result.

That included the scalp of Manchester City. But then, 3-0 losses to Palace and Chelsea followed. On Sunday, Spurs’ form worsened.

At half-time, Arsenal were unexpectedly 3-0 ahead – thanks to goals from Emile Smith-Rowe, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Bukayo Saka.

Spurs got one back through Son, but Arsenal dominated. Ex-Gunners defender Upson explains how a Ben White moment put Arsenal in control.

“The body language between these two teams is the difference. Ben White’s decisive, aggressive tackle, set the tone of the game,” Upson said.

Upson on White: Arsenal defender starting to settle after NLD win

With Son Heung-min threatening to get in behind, ex-Leeds and Brighton defender White came charging across. He had to get the tackle right.

He did just that, perfectly timing his slide, he took the ball and then Son. Judged to perfection by the new Arsenal signing.

The first-half moment was met with rapturous applause from the home support, before Arsenal went on to dominate Spurs in the first 45.

But it was White’s moment of impeccable defending that set the tone. He is looking better in an Arsenal shirt with every minute he plays.

£50million is beginning to look like money well spent – and those that compared to Raphael Varane, might have to start eating their words.