Highbury N5

WENGER URGES TEAM TO END NOVEMBER CURSE

In two days’ time, Sunday to be precise, Arsene Wenger’s men will face Tottenham in a North London Derby.


Ahead of the clash, Wenger has reached out to his players, asking them to ensure that they break November’s curse by securing a win against Tottenham.

However, a potential selection crisis will disturb the Gunners manager, as ahead of the clash, five of his players will be facing a fitness test. Since his 20-year reign in Arsenal, November has been his most challenging month more than any other, as they have suffered the worse results in this month.

Their upcoming game against Tottenham is not helping matters, as it signals a tough beginning into November for the Emirates Stadium dwellers. After the international break, Arsenal will also be meeting Manchester United before going ahead on a visit to Bournemouth.

“We have an opportunity to show we are ready for a challenge like that and do better than we have done historically,” said Wenger.

‘We have already started November in a positive way. I’m sure this team can face history by showing that we can do better than we have done before.’

However, the fitness of five important players have been a source of worry to Wenger. These players are Santi Cazorla, Kieran Gibbs, Nacho Monreal, Theo Walcott and Hector Bellerin.

With Carzola currently out due to injury, Granit Xhaka may have to join up in the starting XI for Wenger. Xhaka recently returned from a 3-match ban after a red card during the game against Swansea last month.

Wenger has also touched on the importance of his £30million summer signing remaining calm during the derby match on Sunday.

“Am I a bit concerned? Yes, because discipline is important and we want to be effective in all situations. In the derby it is important to keep control of your reactions and have strong discipline.” Wenger added.