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Mikel Arteta will win three points and local bragging rights if Arsenal beat Tottenham in the north London derby... but sealing a Champions League return would also bring the prize of vindication after two-and-a-half years of major calls

For Arsenal and Tottenham, there is so much at stake. A Champions League place and all the benefits that come with it, three Premier League points and local bragging rights.

For Mikel Arteta specifically, there is the additional prize of vindication.

That is what he stands on the brink of as he bids to steer Arsenal over the line and back into Europe's top club competition, a coveted reward that will be the culmination of two-and-a-half years full of major calls.

There is lots on the line for Arsenal in their north London derby against Tottenham on Thursday

His controversial ostracising of highest earners Mesut Ozil and Pierre-Emerick Aubamayeng, among others, for falling foul of his non-negotiables.