Any time that Arsenal faces Tottenham it is a must-win game, it really does not matter at what point in the season or even what cup competition it is, Arsenal simply cannot lose the game and Sunday is absolutely no different.
Now, that is blindingly obvious but context, circumstances and timing make certain clashes between the North London rivals more important than other match-ups between the pair and to some extent that applies on Sunday.
Both teams lost last time out and with the international break coming up neither team wants to go into that period on the back of two straight losses.
Additionally, Arsenal has a great chance of going five points clear of Tottenham and even at this stage of the season that is significant.
But for that to happen Arsenal have to get at least four things right on the day.
Take their chances
Speaks for itself, Pepe missed a great chance against Liverpool that could have made all the difference, Aubameyang missed the penalty at Wembley and that would have made all the difference come the end of the season. Arsenal must be more clinical, simple as that.
No mistakes in defence
Errors by David Luiz last week were very costly and that has been the hallmark of Arsenal for the last couple of years, silly avoidable mistakes in defence, they must be cut out.
Defend the flanks
Arsenal basically gave Liverpool freedom of movement down the flanks at Anfield, that cannot be allowed to happen again, it is incomprehensible why Emery allowed that to occur, hopefully, he has learned from his grave mistake.
Stop the counter-attack
Tottenham can be deadly on the counter, they have the pace to really hurt Arsenal and pushing too many men forward without consideration for defending could end up deciding the game and if Emery selects too many attack-minded players you can take it to the bank that Spurs will be looking to counter at every opportunity.
There is more of course, but by getting these four things right Arsenal will give themselves a clear advantage I am positive about that.