TOBY: NOW SPURS ARE REAL KINGS OF NORTH LONDON

TOBY ALDERWEIRELD claims today’s north London derby is just another game for Tottenham as they bid to climb the European football ladder.

Following decades in the Gunners’ shadow, Belgium international Alderweireld reckons there has been a power shift as his side rub shoulders with Barcelona and Inter Milan in blockbuster Champions League ties this season, while Arsenal are having to settle for the Europa League.

The defender (below) said: “Arsenal is a very big game but Milan was and Chelsea last Sunday was as well. That says something about the evolution of Spurs.

“This is not the biggest game of the year but it’s a very big game. We know this and we’re going to do everything we can to get three points.

“We don’t feel we’re at our best yet. We are the most critical of our own performances. “A lot has been said about the stadium and the pitch at Wembley but I think we’re doing well.

“Our performance against Milan was solid. For the last two games, we got to a good level against very good teams and showed we can compete with everybody.

“Our attitude, our mentality is good. We always try to press and if not we stay compact.

“We know playing Arsenal will be different. It’s a very big game but we’re confident.”

Spurs have conceded just 11 goals in the league but Alderweireld insists the entire team deserve credit for that and not just the back four and goalkeeper.

He said: “I think defensively we’re getting better and starting to play attacking football again. “We’re doing well in midfield, and I think we defend as a team and attack as a team.

“Our goals start from the back and if we defend we start with Harry Kane.”