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Tottenham are gearing up for a fierce north London derby against Arsenal, and supporters have already made their feelings known on who should lead the line in one of the biggest fixtures of the season.
Tottenham Hotspur went into the international break having picked up a draw against Manchester United, despite coming from a goal down to lead, but they lost it all after De Ligt equalised.
A two-week break from club football will now be followed by a testing north London derby against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.
Spurs have not won any of their last six competitive games against Mikel Arteta’s in the Premier League, with their last victory coming in May 2022.
Thomas Frank did manage a victory over the Gunners in his pre-season encounter ahead of the campaign, but competitive fixtures are an entirely different test.
Tottenham fans split over Richarlison and Mathys Tel debate
With the derby in mind, we took to social media to ask Tottenham fans who they would prefer to see leading the line, Mathys Tel or Richarlison.
Spurs supporters did not hold back, with many voicing their opinions and naming their ideal picks, as they could not reach a general consensus.
One fan said: “Both will be a waste of time up playing right up against Saliba and Gabriel. Play Kudus as false 9 with Odobert and Xavi as 2 x flexible 10s in a 3421.”
Another fan believes Brennan Johnson would be ideal: “Brennan Johnson – give him a chance upfront. He cannot cross. Let him loose – but otherwise I am still saying RKM.”
One Tottenham fan named Richarlison as their preferred pick: “Richarlison for his strength and hold-up play… Tel would, unfortunately be chasing shadows as that is not his strongest attribute.”
Another prefers Tel: “I think Tel has earned a selection. There is something dynamic about him as his goals against Leeds and Man U have shown. Not consistent yet, but he has something about him. I struggle to watch Richarlison play as he is continually falling over.”
Another supporter claimed that support from others would be needed regardless of who starts up top: “Saliba and Gabriel will find it ridiculously easy if Richie has one of his always falling over trying to buy free kicks games. That being said, whoever plays has to have support around them. Nobody can be successful with one up against their defence.”
Another supporter’s pick was clear: “Has to be Richarlison unfortunately. Tel would just get bullied by Saliba and Gabriel.”
Arsenal’s stubborn defence and Spurs’ attacking challenge
Arsenal have the best defence in the league, having conceded just two goals after going eight games without conceding in all competitions.
Tottenham have not been the best side when it comes to creating chances, as they often struggle in that regard. Against Chelsea, Tottenham managed just one shot on target throughout the match.
Both number nine options have scored goals this season already, but neither has been consistent enough. Richarlison has managed four goals in all competitions, all coming in the league, while Tel has two.
Frank could have the option of Dominic Solanke, who may return from injury, but it is unlikely he starts or features, while Muani remains ruled out with a jaw injury.
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