“This feels like a strange game” Lawro predicts cagey encounter between Arsenal and Tottenham

Former Liverpool star Mark Lawrenson has revealed his prediction for Saturday’s north London derby.

Arsenal host their biter rivals at the Emirates stadium at 12:30 (GMT) today as they look return to winning ways.

The Gunners suffered a 3-1 defeat at the hands of Man City a fortnight ago and know a defeat could leave them six points behind the top four.

Tottenham meanwhile have been flying in recent weeks, notably with their 3-1 win over UEFA Champions League title holders Real Madrid.

Lawrenson believes the game will be cagey with both sides cancelling each other out. The BBC pundit also expects Arsenal to be better than they were against City.

“This feels like a strange game to start us off again after two weeks without the Premier League,” Lawrenson told BBC Sport.

“There has still been plenty of hype about it, but I think there would have been more without the international break.

“Will that hype be justified? Probably not. I have a feeling both teams will cancel each other out, and both of them will be happy enough with a point.

“Tottenham won their last game before the international break, against Crystal Palace, but they made hard work of it.

“They will be better this weekend, though, because Harry Kane, Dele Alli and Harry Winks will all be back after missing out on England duty through injury.”

Tottenham will be hoping for all three points as they look to keep up with the pace set by leaders Manchester City.

Harry Kane, Dele Alli and Harry Winks are all expected to be back after missing out on England duty due to injury.