Tottenham Hotspur faces a significant challenge as they prepare for their upcoming North London Derby, with key player Yves Bissouma's fitness in question following an injury sustained on international duty. This comes as a blow to the team, adding to the list of big names already ruled out for the first North London Derby of the season.
The Gunners are also dealing with their own midfield injury crisis. Captain Martin Odegaard and new signing Mikel Merino have been sidelined for several weeks due to injuries. Additionally, Declan Rice is suspended following his controversial red card against Brighton.
On Tottenham's side, forward Richarlison is confirmed to miss the derby due to being out of favour. Meanwhile, Micky van de Ven and Dominic Solanke are battling time and fitness levels in hopes of making it onto the pitch in time.
A key player at risk
Adding further worry for Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou is a fresh injury concern involving key defensive midfielder Bissouma. The 28-year-old was forced off during Mali’s World Cup qualifier match against Eswatini after receiving a nasty challenge that resulted in him being substituted at the 65th minute mark.
Multiple reports suggest that he suffered a knock during this incident which now puts his participation in doubt for Sunday’s Premier League match against Arsenal.
Bissouma had previously missed Spurs' opening game of this season against Leicester due to suspension imposed by Tottenham after he uploaded a video on social media showing him inhaling laughing gas. Despite this setback, he remains an integral part of Postecoglou's plans having returned immediately into starting XI where he scored an opener leading Spurs’ 4-0 win over Everton.
Potential impact on league standings
Currently sitting at 10th place with one win, one draw, and one loss, Tottenham's position in the table could significantly improve with a win against Arsenal. A victory would move them level on points with Arsenal, who currently sit fourth.
The upcoming North London Derby promises to be an intense clash as both teams grapple with injury crises and suspensions. The potential absence of key players like Yves Bissouma could have significant implications on the outcome of this match and subsequent league standings.
