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Why Arsenal are King of North London ?


Arsenal take on Tottenham this weekend in arguably the biggest north London derby in years, with Champions League football and the all-important bragging rights both up grabs.
Spurs come into the game with the advantage, being in excellent form and third in the league, while the beleaguered Gunners are in 5th and have had a difficult few weeks.

But who is the real king of North London? Danny Griffiths makes a case for Tottenham, but here’s Jamie Sanderson on why Arsenal are the only team in town:
Manager
Arsene Wenger is feeling the pressure after failing to deliver a trophy in the last eight years, but he is still loved, wanted and admired by some of the biggest clubs in the world.
Wenger’s stock may be down, but he’s definitely not out. He has a proven track record of winning, and nothing brings out the best in him like a good battle with Spurs in the derby. Andre Villas-Boas has had a good season, but is a mere minnow compared to The Professor.
Star Man
All the talk in the run up to this match has been Gareth Bale, but Jack Wilshere has arguably had more of an influence on his team than the Welshman.
Since returning from injury, Jack has returned to the top of his game, and inspired Arsenal’s push up the table. Forget Bale’s long-range goals and love heart celebration, Wilshere wears his heart on his sleeve and does everything – pass, shoot, tackle, attack, defend and lead. He’s the complete player, and an absolute joy to watch.
Squad
Spurs are all about their one-man Gareth Bale – Arsenal are an abundance of options to watch out for.
Despite the sale of Robin van Persie, Arsenal have more attacking options this season, with Lukas Podolski, Olivier Giroud and Theo Walcott all playing and scoring goals down the middle. Santi Cazorla has added much-needed creativity – and 10 goals to boot – and the Gunners now carry a goal threat from all over the pitch.
The defence remains as suspect as ever, especially from set pieces, but Nacho Monreal at left-back has been a superb signing, and can help snuff out Aaron Lennon’s pace, while Spurs’ goal shy strikers are unlikely to trouble the back four that much anyway.
StadiumArsenal have arguably the best stadium in the country, with the always evolving £360million Emirates Stadium boasting 60,000 seats, superb player facilities and some of the finest restaurants in London. The tickets are expensive – around £1 per minute for many matches – but to watch sumptuous football in a top quality venue costs.
The stadium has helped Arsenal build their commercial revenue, with Emirates happy to pay £150million to renew their naming rights deal, and while it is yet to see any trophy wins – Emirates Cup aside – compared to the tired and run down White Hart Lane, it’s a premier venue fit for the kings of north London.
Overall
Make no mistakes, Arsenal are on the down and enduring a difficult season, with frustrating cup results combined with a poor league position leading to question marks over Arsene Wenger’s future.
But when push comes to shove, they are still the number one team in north London, boasting a superior all-round squad, a more experienced and proven manager, better strength in depth and even a better stadium.
Spurs are on the up and if Arsenal are not careful, they will one day overtake the Gunners, but Wenger should keep his side on top this term at least.

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