We all know that well-worn saying, “Let’s all laugh at Tottenham.” For a glorious streak of 19 league games, that’s been the case against our poorer cousins down the road.

It really is all their fault. Their whole ethos as a club is constantly with Arsenal in mind. Tell me another case in the world where this occurs? Other clubs focus on consolidating their positions in the league, or going for a title, or fighting off relegation.

But Tottenham, bless them, only have us in mind. It’s the whole hollywood case of “What’s he got that I don’t?”, the better looking cousin, the successful rival, the alpha male of the pack.

If Wenger’s reign as Arsenal’s manager will be remembered for anything other than the usual accolades, it’s the stranglehold he’s had over this local derby.

The Spurs fans will come on here saying “Look at the arrogance of Arsenal fans,” which would be right. I am arrogant. When it comes to Spurs, we can’t help but look at that club with a dose of disdain. Their whole lives surround Arsenal losing and ‘breaking into the Top 4.

I’m going to say something nice about Spurs here, so listen up: You guys actually do have a chance of doing that this season.

Of course, it won’t be easy with the usual Top4, Man City and Aston Villa breathing down your necks as well, but when it comes to ‘aiming’ for fourth spot, you could very well do it.

Only, it’s unlikely to come at Arsenal’s expense. While we have weaknesses in our side (Goalkeepers, and who will replace Alex Song in January???), we have eyes on that number one spot for now. Not number four. Not staying where we are. Going forward.

So typically, Robbie Keane comes out with the usual gumph about how Spurs are the equal of Arsenal despite languishing a cumulative 1,913 points behind them over a whole host of seasons.

Ask yourself: Do you honestly think Keane believes the Spurs squad can match Arsenal over a season?

Of course, it’s what you expect them to say in the leadup to this fixture, so no surprises. But how many times have we heard it before? How many more times do the Spurs fans have to flame Arsenal blogs with “We’re coming for ya, We’re coming for ya”. Thankfully we don’t have to see them more than twice, if not four times in a season. Anything more would be overkill.

Just remember, it’s not Arsenal who are all high-and-mighty – that’s just what I as an individual fan do. It’s Spurs that have done all the talking before this game, and Arsenal have been wise to keep quiet.

Spurs are still selling their commerative 5-1 mugs. Heck, even the 4-4 mugs are still doing well. And yes, it hasn’t escaped me that the longer a run of games goes on, the more likely that streak will end. It will, one day. Perhaps even this Saturday. But a season is not built on one or two games. It comes down to consistency, patience, taking your chances, and wise investment. That is what Arsenal will be judged on. Not the local bragging rights.

The difference between Arsenal and Spurs will always remain as one has a season-long focus, and the other lives for just one match.

I know who I’m rooting for.

Full match preview tomorrow. And to Brisbane fans, don’t forget to get to the Pig and Whistle before 10pm Saturday. Comments, thoughts, and Spurs fans flaming, all below.

Filed under: Arsenal, English Premier League, Tottenham