Arsenal vs. Tottenham 2017: Prediction, TV Channel, Start Time And Preview

Arsenal host local rival Tottenham on Saturday at the Emirates Stadium with both clubs seeking to gain ground in the Premier League title race. Arsenal are currently tied for fifth place with 19 points, while Tottenham are even with Manchester United for second place (23 points).

The momentum belongs to Tottenham entering the match. In November 2016, Tottenham drew with Arsenal at the Emirates, 1-1. Spurs came back in April to defeat Arsenal, 2-0, in White Hart Lane's last-ever North London derby. Mauricio Pochettino's squad is also coming off home wins over Real Madrid in Champions League and Crystal Palace in the Premier League, while Arsenal are coming off a loss to Premier League leaders Manchester City.

The rivalry usually means inspired play from both sides and this year should be no different.

"I think Tottenham are a good side but we have the quality to win this game and that's what we want to show," said Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger.

"The conclusion of people will be the comparison of the two performances on Saturday. We have a good opportunity to show we are the strongest, so let's do it.

"It's one of the fixtures that is very important for us and that we want to win, basically as well because in the table we have to make some ground up with the top teams.

"Our home strength will certainly be vital to decide where we finish at the end of the season."

While Wenger will be without injured striker Olivier Giroud, he welcomes back center back Laurent Koscielny. It's unclear if Shkodran Mustafi and Danny Welbeck will be available.

Inconsistent forward Alexandre Lacazette is expected to start after coming on as a substitute against Liverpool and Manchester City. Wenger told reporters this week that he completely trusts Lacazette.

Pochettino is still without Toby Alderweireld (hamstring) and Victor Wanyama (knee). Dele Alli, Harry Kane, Hugo Lloris, Michel Vorm and Harry Winks participated in training Thursday despite fitness concerns.

Prediction: Arsenal 2-1 Tottenham

Start Time: 7:30 a.m. ET

TV Channel: NBC Sports

Live Stream: NBC Sports App