Pundit Paul Merson had urged Arsenal to unleash Raheem Sterling against Tottenham Hotspur in order to expose their high defensive line.
The unfortunate injuries in the midfield department have left Mikel Arteta scratching his head ahead of the North London derby.
However, he has a full-fledged attack at his disposal. New signing Raheem Sterling participated in training drills; Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard are fit and ready to participate in the North London derby.
Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka have returned from international duty and are expected to keep his place in the starting XI. The manager will be happy to have all probably options on the table but needs to select his best front-line.
This is Sterling vs Tottenham’s high-line last season🤯 pic.twitter.com/I8RganwMTv
— Spike⚡ (@dennizzer_k) September 13, 2024
Spurs’ defence has been breached three times compared to Arsenal’s one. As per Mearson, Chelsea loanee Sterling’s ability to break past the high defensive line could work wonders for the Gunners on Sunday.
While writing on Sky Sports, he said:
“In my opinion, Mikel Arteta has now got to drop Kai Havertz back into the midfield but then there’s no Gabriel Jesus to play as the striker.”
“They will probably end up playing with a false nine – that should be Leandro Trossard with Raheem Sterling on the wing.”
“Against this Tottenham team, you have to have players who are prepared to run without the ball to get in behind a high line and Sterling does that.”
Arteta banks on Raheem Sterling to prove his worth vs Tottenham
Arteta decided to bring Sterling to Emirates this summer due to his versatility upfront. He can play as a left-winger vs. Spurs, with Trossard upfront and supported by Bukayo Saka on the right-wing.
This will help the squad fill the void in midfield by pushing Havertz in the centre of the field. Sterling’s frightening pace and link-up play can disturb their rivals’ attacking full-backs, forcing them to make mistakes on the flanks.
Gallas:
I’ve seen the pictures of Sterling in training; he looks happy & relaxed. His body language looks good, at Chelsea, that wasn’t the case.
He has an opportunity to show people what he’s all about, and perhaps working with a manager that knows him, will help him do that. pic.twitter.com/JftK6T9LX9
— ARSENAL (@tomgunner14) September 12, 2024
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In the recent clash between Liverpool and Manchester United, the fans got a glimpse of how pacy wingers can exploit open spaces in defence due to the full-backs moving ahead to support their attackers.
The 29-year-old English ace will be eager to showcase his true potential under Arteta, a manager with whom he has worked at Manchester City.
There is no better way than putting up a solid display against their local rivals in the Premier League.
