Arsenal dominate but Rice, Odegaard blows see Spurs trio make North London derby combined XI

Arsenal dominate but Rice, Odegaard blows see Spurs trio make North London derby combined XI

Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard won’t be involved against Tottenham Hotspur, but Arsenal still dominate this North London Derby combined XI…

Goalkeeper: David Raya (Arsenal)

Arsenal’s decision to replace Aaron Ramsdale with Raya was heavily scrutinised at the start of last season, but Mikel Arteta and Edu – as with most of their recent transfer business – were quickly proven right with the Spain international, who is in our Premier League team of the season so far.

 

 

 

Right-back: Ben White (Arsenal)

A huge ‘change’ would reportedly make an England return possible for White. But for now, Lee Carsley’s loss is Arsenal’s gain as the Premier League title contenders benefit from the 26-year-old focusing on matters at club level.

 

 

 

Centre-back: William Saliba (Arsenal)

Arguably the best centre-back in the Premier League? Saliba is f***ing brilliant, so there’s no wonder Arteta wants ‘crazy money’ with three elite European clubs trying to sign him.

Centre-back: Gabriel Magalhaes (Arsenal)

Saliba is naturally joined in this XI by his centre-back partner, Gabriel. We boldly encouraged Arsenal to sell the Brazil international in the summer and this would have been harsh, but the north London club could do with tying him down to a new contract.

 

 

 

Left-back: Jurrien Timber (Arsenal)

You’re joking – not another Arsenal defender!

 

Timber was sorely missed last season and his return to fitness boosts what’s already a really strong defence. His selection was made easier by Destiny Udogie’s struggles before the international break as Tottenham’s disappointment needs to step up.

Centre midfield: James Maddison (Tottenham Hotspur)

Phew, it’s finally time for a representative of Spurs in this team and we start with Maddison, who has fit Tottenham like a glove following last year’s move from Leicester City.

 

He’s struggled to hit the heights he reached before last season’s injury, but he’s the Christian Eriksen-type player they had craved for years.