Tottenham vs Arsenal: Five key head-to-head battles

Theo Walcott vs Benoit Assou-Ekotto

As with Bale, the results of this battle will likely depend on whether Wenger deploys Walcott as a central striker – up against the brawny but plodding Michael Dawson – or wide right. And the Frenchman might prefer the England man to come up against Assou-Ekotto, who is still yet to find his top form after returning from a long-term knee injury.

With Bale playing centrally, the Cameroonian is likely to be lacking cover on the left flank and Walcott has the directness and pace to ruthlessly exploit his isolation to Arsenal’s advantage.

Advantage: Arsenal