Paul Merson says what could be a big ‘problem’ for Arsenal and Mikel Arteta v Tottenham

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The build-up to the north London derby between Tottenham and Arsenal is firmly on and Paul Merson has highlighted a potential issue for the Gunners.

Mikel Arteta has some big selection calls to make to face Spurs, with Martin Odegaard injured and Declan Rice suspended.

In attack, he must also decide whether to give Raheem Sterling a debut, play Leandro Trossard, or thrust Gabriel Jesus into the mix and drop Kai Havertz into midfield.

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Indeed, there have been suggestions that Trossard will get the nod for Arsenal, although there is no confirmation just yet.

All these issues are headaches Arteta could do without and according to Merson, it could lead to Arsenal having a big problem.

Paul Merson highlights Arsenal’s Kai Havertz problem v Tottenham

Speaking on Sky Sports’ Soccer Saturday about the impact Havertz can have on the NLD, Merson suggested the German dropping back into midfield could actually cause a big problem.

“It’s nice if you are a manager to know you have got a top player who can play up front and then drop back into that position,” Merson said.

“The problem is Arsenal will need a focal point tomorrow. If Havertz doesn’t play, you know, Havertz is not a big, elbows man, but he is a big lad, he is intelligent, he holds the ball up well for someone who is a very good footballer.

“He likes to flick balls as well and he has got a good brain.”

Arsenal’s midfield problem could be crucial

There’s absolutely no doubt that Ange Postecoglou and his Tottenham team will be looking at the lack of midfield options for Arsenal and looking to pounce.

With Rice and Odegaard out alongside Mikel Merino, Mikel Arteta effectively has his best trio when fit all out injured.

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Of course, a number of Arsenal players will be vying to replace Odegaard, while Declan Rice will probably be replaced by Jorginho in the middle of the park.

But there is no denying Arsenal look short going into the NLD for once and if Havertz does play in midfield, it might well be a deciding factor on the day.