The rescheduled North London Derby clash between Arsenal and Tottenham is now just over a week away with a place in the top-four of the Premier League potentially at stake.
Both sides are determined to return to Europe’s elite competition after missing out in recent years and it could come down to a straight shootout.
Thursday, May 12 is the date set for the encounter at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and Mikel Arteta will be hoping for a repeat of the first meeting between the sides this season, where the Gunners eased past the Lilywhites with a 3-1 win.
With just four games to go, Arsenal lead Spurs by two points.
The experience of the Tottenham side compared to the Gunners has seen some think they will end up on top come May 22.
It’s a fixture that’s always heightened by emotion and even more so now given what the result could mean for the outcome of the two’s respective Premier League seasons.
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With that in mind, the officiating is also going to be under some scrutiny.
The Premier League have confirmed that it will be Paul Tierney taking charge of the encounter, with Mike Dean on VAR duties.
Although both Arsenal and Spurs have struggled with Tierney in charge in recent times, some Gunners fans seem to be actively angered by the fact that Dean will take control of the monitors.
He’s been known to make some big decisions in the past, some of which have impacted Arsenal and their progress.
With him retiring at the end of the season, Gunners fans are worried he may have one last say on a big Premier League game.
Take a look at some of what’s been said on Twitter below.
Arsenalcallum00 said: “Hahaha 100% somehow the biggest NLD in years will become the Mike Dean show.”
Elspanishgooner said: “Mike Dean on VAR duty for the NLD. Not suspicious at all.”
BigFmJimmy said: “Evil Dean will strike from the shadows!”.
Mikeysanchez27 said: “Mike dean retiring at end of the season. What better game to sign off with other than a NLD.“.
Dublingunner46 said: “Mike Dean in NLD. Having nightmares about it already.”
Madgoonz said: “Just retire already.”
Micky sims said: “This is an absolute joke! How is he allowed near our games? What a nightmare.”