Arsenal star Alexis Sanchez looks set to return for this weekend's north London derby

Published: 5 February, 2015
by STEVE BARNETT

FRANCIS Coquelin has declared this Saturday’s north London derby against Tottenham as “a must-win game” as the search for precious Premier League points is swapped for a battle of bragging rights. 

The 23-year-old has become a first-team regular for the Gunners since being recalled from a loan spell at Charlton in December, and is being hailed as the catalyst for the club winning their last five games. 

Coquelin, who is set to put pen-to-paper on a new long-term deal at Arsenal, says he can’t wait to experience “the special atmosphere” that the derby will bring to White Hart Lane. 

“It’s a massive game for the club and the fans,” he told Arsenal Player. 

“I think everyone is looking forward to it. The Manchester City match was a big one, and this one has got a special something about it too. 

“It’s going to be a tough game – we’re playing away, so it’s going to be hard. I think with the month we’ve just had, the confidence is going to be high.

“Even at youth level, we got a lot of stick from their fans and the atmosphere was really good,” Coquelin added. “It just makes you want to do even better for your team and win the game.

“When you play for Arsenal against Tottenham, it’s not about just playing your game, it’s about winning. You have to win it. For the fans and the team it’s a big game and it’s one we want to win.” 

The Gunners will have even more firepower back in their ranks ahead of the trip to White Hart Lane with Danny Welbeck expected to return to action. Alexis Sanchez looks set to miss out due to an ongoing hamstring problem. 

January signing Gabriel Paulista will again be on the bench having been an unused substitute in Arsenal’s 5-0 victory over Aston Villa on Sunday.