Arsenal return to Premier League action on Sunday afternoon when they visit rivals Tottenham Hotspur in North London.
The Gunners will be eager to respond to their dismal draw away at Wolverhampton Wanderers on Wednesday night, when Tom Edozie’s 94th-minute equaliser dented Mikel Arteta’s side’s title hopes. While Manchester City remain five points adrift of the league leaders, another poor result this weekend will certainly signal a significant shift in the momentum of the title race.
City host Newcastle United on Saturday night, so the gap could be cut to just two points by the time the North London derby commences.
In the reverse fixture at the Emirates back in November, Arsenal cruised to a resounding 4-1 victory courtesy of an Eberechi Eze hat-trick. The game was a somewhat uncontentious affair, and Arteta will be hoping for a similarly serene outing in N17.
With that said, here’s a look at the Premier League’s pick for the match officials for Tottenham vs Arsenal.
Who is the referee for Tottenham vs Arsenal?
The Premier League have announced that Peter Bankes will be the referee in charge of Arsenal’s match against Tottenham.
Bankes has officiated two Gunners matches so far this season, with Arteta’s men winning just one of these two games.
The official oversaw Arsenal’s 1-0 Carabao Cup victory over Chelsea earlier this month, as well as Arteta’s team’s 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa back in December.
Peter Bankes’ record against Arsenal
Bankes has been a Premier League referee since 2019 and has officiated 13 Arsenal games throughout his career.
In these games, he’s handed the Gunners 12 yellow cards, no red cards and no penalties.
| Bankes’ record refereeing Arsenal matches | |||
| Matches | Arsenal wins | Draws | Arsenal defeats |
| 13 | 9 | 1 | 3 |
Peter Bankes’ record against Tottenham
As for Tottenham, Bankes has officiated 16 of the Lilywhites’ games, giving them 32 yellow cards, no red cards and one penalty in the process.
| Bankes’ record refereeing Tottenham matches | |||
| Matches | Tottenham wins | Draws | Tottenham defeats |
| 16 | 7 | 4 | 5 |
Who are the assistant referees and VAR?
Alongside Peter Bankes as the referee will be his assistants, Eddie Smart, Blake Antrobus and Sam Barrott, with the former two running the line and the latter the fourth official.
In the VAR room at Stockley Park, Darren England will oversee the game, with Tim Wood assisting him.
