Van de Ven boost ahead of North London derby

Tottenham defender Micky van de Ven is confident he will return in time for the North London derby after avoiding a major injury.

The 23-year-old centre-back missed the 2-1 defeat away at Newcastle this weekend and has pulled out of the Netherlands squad for the upcoming Nations League matches.

But the injury withdrawal from his national team is believed to be pre-cautionary as he continues treatment after jarring his knee in the prior win over Everton.

Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou has already played down fears of any prolonged absence and also spoke about his excitement at giving Radu Dragusin a game in his place.

Dominic Solanke could return from an ankle injury after the international break, while Richarlison remains injured and a major doubt to face Arsenal.