Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has a major headache as he considers how to reshuffle his defence against Spurs in the likely absence of the injured Gabriel Magalhaes. The Brazilian has been a key player in Arsenal's near-impregnable back line, which has conceded just five goals in 11 Premier League matches.

Gabriel's injury is a significant blow to Arsenal, who are already dealing with an extensive injury list that includes Viktor Gyokeres, Martin Odegaard, and others. The Gunners are four points clear of Manchester City, who drew 2-2 with Sunderland earlier this month, ending a streak of eight wins in all competitions with no goals conceded.

Arsenal remain favourites to secure a first Premier League title since 2003/04 and have a strong record against their London rivals, losing just once in the league at home to Tottenham since 1993. However, Spurs travel to the Emirates boasting the best away record in the league this season, with four wins and a draw from five games.

Liverpool's hopes of a successful title defence appear to be over after five defeats in six games left them eight points behind leaders Arsenal. The champions face Nottingham Forest on Saturday, and their biggest problem is their leaky defence, which has conceded at least two goals in six of their past seven league games.

Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has warned the club could even miss out on Champions League qualification if they fail to strengthen their defence in the January transfer window. Reports suggest they remain interested in signing Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, but Liverpool need an immediate improvement.

Newcastle are languishing in 14th spot in the Premier League, with just three wins this season, as they prepare to welcome Manchester City to St James' Park on Saturday. Manager Eddie Howe is looking for a big response from his team, who have struggled for consistency and goals this season.

Howe would not have chosen City as his opponents this weekend, as Pep Guardiola's men have not lost to the Magpies in the league since 2019. Despite some disgruntlement among fans, Howe will surely be given the benefit of the doubt by club chiefs after winning the League Cup last season and qualifying for the Champions League.