Will Spurs’ home comforts trump Arsenal’s Wembley invincibility?

As Tottenham prepare for the 195th North London derby against rivals Arsenal, there has rarely been a time when the venue, rather than the fixture, has gained so much attention in the build-up — which means Wembley could be responsible this evening not only for happy memories for both sides but also for shaping the future of the victor.

Tottenham’s temporary home was always going to play a big part in their transformation from glamorous under-achievers to a club capable of joining the European elite; and despite those early scare stories about a ‘Wembley jinx’, that opportunity is starting to hit home with record attendances, a raised global profile and a Champions League victory over Real Madrid which has made football sit up and take notice.

Home advantage against their old rivals, then, ought to be key; but Wembley holds a special place in Arsenal hearts, too, and for years they have proudly held the record of the club that has played most times at England’s national stadium.