Arsenal urged to remain in the moment for Spurs clash after Brighton draw
Slegers believes Arsenal should focus on the present rather than the future when they face Tottenham in the North London derby
The Gunners were held to a 1-1 draw by Brighton on Saturday, but Slegers insists they must not dwell on the result
Former Arsenal defender Philippe Senderos believes the Gunners must remain in the moment when they face Tottenham in the North London derby on Saturday.
The Gunners were held to a 1-1 draw by Brighton on Saturday, but Slegers insists they must not dwell on the result and instead focus on the task at hand.
"It's important for Arsenal to not get too caught up in the hype surrounding the North London derby," Slegers told Goal. "They need to stay focused on the present and what they can control.
"Of course, it's a big game and there's a lot of history between the two clubs, but Arsenal need to approach it like any other game. They need to go out there and play their own game, and not get caught up in the emotion of the occasion.
"If they can do that, I think they have a good chance of getting a result."
Arsenal are currently fourth in the Premier League table, one point ahead of Tottenham. A win in the derby would see them move above their rivals and into third place.
However, Slegers warns that Arsenal cannot afford to underestimate Tottenham, who have won their last three games in all competitions.
"Tottenham are a good team," Slegers said. "They've got some very good players and they're always a threat. Arsenal need to be wary of them and make sure they don't get caught out.
"But if Arsenal play to their strengths and stay focused on the present, I think they can get a good result."
The North London derby is one of the most fiercely contested fixtures in English football, and Slegers is expecting a close and exciting game.
"It's always a special game," Slegers said. "There's a lot of passion and intensity, and the atmosphere is always electric.
"I think it will be a very close game, and it could go either way. But I'm confident that Arsenal can get a result if they stay focused and play to their strengths."
Conclusion
Slegers' advice is sound, and Arsenal would be wise to heed it. The North London derby is always a tough game, but Arsenal have a good chance of winning if they stay focused and play to their strengths.
The Gunners have a lot of quality in their squad, and they are capable of beating anyone on their day. If they can stay in the moment and not get caught up in the hype, they have a good chance of getting a result at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.