Tottenham v Arsenal: Gunners will be tested to the full, says Arteta
Mikel Arteta believes Arsenal face a stern examination of their Premier League title credentials when they tackle Tottenham
Fierce rivals meet in a mouthwatering north London derby on Sunday
Arsenal will find out how far they have genuinely progressed under Mikel Arteta when they head to rivals Tottenham on Sunday, according to the Spaniard himself.
The Gunners have enjoyed a stunning campaign to date and currently sit top of the Premier League table, five points clear of Manchester City, with a game in hand.
Should they win in north London, they will move eight points clear of Spurs, who have been quietly enjoying a strong season themselves under Antonio Conte.
But Arteta, who played in numerous fierce encounters between the two teams during his own illustrious playing career with Arsenal, knows all about the unique demands of a north London derby.
And he knows that, despite Arsenal's impressive form, his team face a daunting challenge if they want to maintain their current position at the summit of the standings.
"It's another big test," Arteta told reporters on Friday. "We've come a long way, but Sunday is another step in our journey.
"Tottenham are a great team, with a great manager in Antonio Conte.
"It will be a very difficult game, but if we want to be at the top, we have to win matches like this.
"We will have to play with a lot of determination and intensity and show that we are not afraid of the challenge that they will impose on us.
"We need to be focused and prepared to suffer, because it will be a tough match."
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