Saka shares north London derby memories

From watching the north London derby as a kid to scoring in the fixture for the first time, Sunday’s game means more to Bukayo Saka.

Our number seven opened his account against Tottenham Hotspur in our 3-1 win at Emirates Stadium in September 2021, giving us a 3-0 lead in the 34th minute after goals from Emile Smith Rowe and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

“After my first goal it’s hard to describe how I felt,” he recalled. “It was such a big game. I know how it feels for an Arsenal man to beat Tottenham. To play and score is special to me. I’ll always remember that day and it was nice to do it and win as well.

“I don’t think I’d change anything. Arsenal means everything to me.”

Asked for his favourite goal in the derby that wasn’t scored by him, Bukayo provided a couple of examples.

“One that comes to mind, I was on the bench when Alexandre Lacazette scored an unbelievable goal at their stadium,” he said. “Also, Tomas Rosicky as well, another number seven! Unbelievable goal, you don’t see goals like that often with the quality and technique of the strike. For him to do it in a north London derby as well is special. I’m sure if you ask him it’s probably one of his favourite goals as well.”

"I don’t think I’d change anything. Arsenal means everything to me."

This season’s previous meeting at Emirates Stadium ended in a 2-2 draw after Son Heung-min equalised twice following an own goal from Cristian Romero and a strike from Saka.

“They have a lot of quality and can punish you if you make mistakes with their attack,” Bukayo said. “We know how good their players are. We also have our own strengths as well so we’re confident that we can win.”

Helping us to fight for three points will be the Gooners who have provided plenty of great chants for individual players within the team.

“Obviously it’s nice to have my own song so thank-you to the fans for making it,” Bukayo added. “All the boys love it. Right now I like the Kai Havertz one and William Saliba’s one as well!”