Mikel Arteta makes huge Thomas Partey decision ahead of North London Derby clash with Spurs

Thomas Partey starts for Arsenal in the North London Derby clash with Spurs at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

The Ghanaian made just his second start since August in Arsenal's 5-0 win over Chelsea on Tuesday night and was superb alongside Martin Odegaard and Declan Rice. There was however, some doubt as to whether he would be fit enough to start consecutive matches in such quick succession, leading to suggestions that Jorginho would come in.

Partey has been chosen to start, however, as Mikel Arteta sticks to the team that was so successful in the Gunners' last London derby.

That means that Takehiro Tomiyasu keeps his spot at left back. Jurrien Timber is not in the first team squad as he is away with the Under-21s. Jakub Kiwior and Oleksandr Zinchenko, meanwhile, have been left on the bench.

Every word Mikel Arteta said on Arsenal injuries, Man City form, Tottenham and Jurrien Timber

Arsenal most difficult Premier League fixtures compared to Man City after Liverpool boost

Leandro Trossard keeps his spot on the left wing for Arsenal after a run of three goals in his last four games. Gabriel Martinelli is among the subs yet again.

It is a strong-looking bench for Arsenal as Arteta reaps the rewards of a near-fully fit squad to choose from. Reiss Nelson, Mohamed Elneny and Cedric are the unfortunate trio to miss out on the matchday squad entirely.

Arsenal starting XI vs Tottenham: Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Tomiyasu; Partey, Odegaard, Rice; Saka Havertz, Trossard.

Subs: Ramsdale, Kiwior, Zinchenko, Jorginho, Vieira, Smith Rowe, Martinelli, Nketiah, Jesus.

Want to keep up to date with the breaking and important Arsenal stories whilst on the move? Well now you can!

Click this link to follow the football.london Arsenal WhatsApp