By Milcah Tanimu
Former Tottenham Hotspur defender Michael Dawson believes his old club will hold an advantage in the upcoming north London derby against Arsenal, primarily due to the absence of two key Gunners players, Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard.
Arsenal have started the season strong, collecting seven points from their first three Premier League games, solidifying their status as title contenders. However, as they prepare for the high-stakes clash at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, the Gunners face significant challenges with the suspension of Rice and the injury of Odegaard.
Rice is out of action after receiving a red card in Arsenal’s recent match against Brighton, while Odegaard is sidelined with an ankle injury sustained during international duty with Norway.
Dawson highlighted the impact of these absences, noting that Arsenal will keenly feel the loss of these pivotal players in such a crucial match. He suggested that the gap between the two rivals, which was wider last season, has now narrowed due to these developments.
“The gap is closer now with those two players looking like they are going to be out,” Dawson remarked on Sky Sports. “Declan Rice is one of the best holding midfielders in the Premier League, and Odegaard is the captain and leader of the team. Without them, Spurs should fancy their chances, especially at home.”
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta will be hoping for other players to step up, with some speculating that Leandro Trossard could be a potential replacement for Odegaard in the lineup.
As the north London derby approaches, all eyes will be on how Arsenal copes without their star players and whether Tottenham can capitalize on their absence.
