Steve Nicol predicts who will win Tottenham vs Arsenal North London derby clash

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The first North London derby of the new Premier League season promises to be an intriguing contest as Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur prepare to do battle on Sunday.

Both sides have big ambitions this season and can’t afford to drop points here as they are coming on the back of disappointing results in their previous league encounters.

Arsenal played out a 1-1 draw against Brighton & Hove Albion in a game that saw Declan Rice shown a red card. Aside from dropping two valuable points so early in the season, his absence against Tottenham will come as a massive blow to Arsenal.

Spurs fell to a 2-1 defeat to Newcastle United and have collected just four points out of nine at the start of the season.

And now, Steve Nicol feels the home side’s misery is about to deepen on Sunday as he predicted a win for Arsenal.

Steve Nicol tips Arsenal to prevail against Tottenham in the North London derby

The Liverpool legend feels Tottenham’s front-footed style of football under Ange Postecoglou will play into Arsenal’s hands.

“Part of the reason why I have gone for them is because it is so important and they will absolutely be up for it,” Nicol said on ESPN FC’s YouTube channel.

“And I think the way Tottenham play is going to help Arsenal because Tottenham, no question, will go forward, will commit players forward and will leave holes.”

Nicol also pinpointed Arsenal’s defence as a massive plus, with only Liverpool (0) conceding fewer goals than them this season (1).

He continued: “And that front four is good enough with the opportunities that they will get with plenty of space, they can hurt Tottenham. And that’s why I have gone for Arsenal.

“That Arsenal back four along with the goalkeeper is rock solid. Rock solid. I mean, they have only lost one goal all season so far.”

Pundits torn on North London derby prediction

Peter Crouch believes Arsenal will win the North London derby as he predicted a 3-2 away win.

However, Aaron Lennon feels Tottenham can record a famous win, with Rice and Martin Odegaard’s absences coming back to haunt the Gunners.

Arsenal are likely to lineup with Thomas Partey and Jorginho in midfield, with Kai Havertz potentially dropping in to complete the trio.

Regardless of who plays, both sides have quality players across the pitch and the game promises to be an exciting contest.