Arteta while addressing the rivalry between the two clubs, said focusing on playing a good game and winning is more important
By Kehinde Okeowo
Arsenal boss, Mikel Arteta has urged his players to “put their rivalry with Tottenham aside” and focus on winning Sunday’s North London Derby to stay in contention for the English Premier League (EPL) title.
The Spanish tactician issued the warning while speaking with reporters on Friday, ahead of the crucial encounter at Tottenham Stadium.
The Gunners are currently top of the EPL table, one point ahead of Manchester City, although the champions have a game in hand.
However, Spurs will be motivated by the idea that they will stop their harsh-rivals from winning their first league title since 2004, if they beat them.
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Addressing the rivalry between the two sides ahead of the match, Arteta believes focusing on playing a good game and winning is more important.
He said: “I think it’s an unbelievable atmosphere. We played there a few times already and it’s a great place to play football.
“We have to put the rivalry aside and we have to live the game with passion and the intensity that it demands rather than anything special because the game has everything you need to enjoy it.”