Betting Tips: Arsenal vs Tottenham

With the Gunners proving to be slow starters this season, Al Hain-Cole is backing Pochettino's men to draw first blood in the North London derby

Arsenal have the chance to move level with Tottenham when the sides meet at the Emirates Stadium in Sunday’s North London derby.

The Gunners have finished behind their neighbours in both of the last two seasons, but are currently keeping up the pace after a run of 11 league fixtures without defeat.

Having come out on top over their rivals in last season’s clash on this ground, they are available at 6/4 (2.50) with bet365 to move above them with another victory here.

However, Mauricio Pochettino’s men will be riding high after a run of six consecutive victories, and are priced at 17/10 (2.70) to secure their first win at this stadium since 2010.

The guests are yet to record a draw in 13 league games this season, but there are odds of 12/5 (3.40) on offer on them settling for a stalemate in this one.

Alexandre Lacazette should be in contention after shaking off the groin problem he sustained against Bournemouth, although Nacho Monreal, Danny Welbeck and Dinos Mavroponos are still ruled out through injury.

Kieran Trippier, Jan Vertonghen and Danny Rose could all return to the backline after recovering from injury, but Mousa Dembele and Victor Wanyama remain on the sidelines.

Despite the upturn in fortunes so far, Arsenal fans have certainly had to learn the importance of patience this season.

Just seven of the 28 goals Unai Emery’s team have scored in the league so far have arrived in the first half, while they have conceded before the break in five of their last six league fixtures.

In contrast, Spurs have hit the net in the opening 45 minutes in six of their previous eight in the league, and raced into a two-goal lead within 18 minutes of last weekend’s impressive victory over Chelsea.

All in all, even money (2.00) quotes offer solid value on Tottenham proving quicker starters once again and opening the scoring on Sunday.