Keane and Arshavin line-out in North London derby

New signing Andrei Arshavin was included on the Arsenal bench for this afternoon’s north-London derby at Tottenham.

The Russian, whose move from Zenit St Petersburg was pushed through just ahead of the transfer deadline, was among the substitutes – along with striker Eduardo, who had been sidelined for more than a year following a broken leg.

Manager Arsene Wenger made two changes from the goalless draw with West Ham. Alex Song came in for Abou Diaby, who was suspended and also carrying an injury, while leading scorer Robin van Persie started.

Robbie Keane – now installed as the new Spurs captain after another deadline-day deal – made his return to White Hart Lane following six months at Liverpool.

Former Arsenal midfielder David Bentley missed out because of suspension, so Jermaine Jenas came in.

Tottenham dedicated today’s game to their SOS Children’s Villages World Orphan Week, with fans and members of the press encouraged to “Wear Something WOW” as a show of support.

Tottenham: Cudicini, Corluka, Dawson, Woodgate, Assou-Ekotto, Lennon, Jenas, Palacios, Modric, Pavlyuchenko, Keane.

Subs: Gomes, Bale, Zokora, Huddlestone, Bent, Taarabt, Chimbonda.

Arsenal: Almunia, Sagna, Toure, Gallas, Clichy, Eboue, Song Billong, Denilson, Nasri, Adebayor, Van Persie.

Subs: Fabianski, Eduardo, Ramsey, Djourou, Arshavin, Bendtner, Gibbs.

Referee: Mike Dean (Wirral)