Inside track on Arsenal | Jamie Spangher on Slegers' impact | OneFootball

We return to Barclays Women’s Super League action on Sunday as we take on rivals Arsenal at Emirates Stadium (12.30pm UK).

After our narrow defeat to Manchester United at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium last time out, bringing an end to our five-game unbeaten run in the WSL, we’ll look to bounce back in Sunday’s north London derby.

While the Gunners head into the showdown on the back of an impressive 4-3 win over Manchester City in the league, lifting them to third in the table on 27 points.

Ahead of this weekend’s encounter, we caught with Jamie Spangher once again to see how Arsenal have fared since our last meeting in November…

Our last outing against Arsenal

How would you reflect on Arsenal's recent run of form?

Jamie: “Since the 3-0 win at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in November, Arsenal have won 10 out of 12 games across all competitions, scoring 33 goals. The most notable performances came when the Gunners secured an important victory over Bayern Munich on the final day of the UEFA Women's Champions League group stage, as well as a 4-3 win away to Manchester City in the WSL.

“The only defeats came from a narrow 1-0 loss against Chelsea in the league, as well as a recent 2-1 loss to City in the semi-final of the league cup. Arsenal have been firing up front over recent months, with several different goalscorers able to find the scoresheet.”

Who have been the standout players so far this term?

Jamie: “Alessia Russo has been ruthless in front of goal since the two sides last met, having scored seven goals in 10 games. Spurs will need to pay particular attention to her if they are to nullify Arsenal's attacking threat.

“Kyra Cooney-Cross has also been in standout form over the recent term, picking up Arsenal's Player of the Month award for January after a string of impressive displays. The Australian midfielder has been strong and composed in the central third, leading Arsenal's midfield in the absence of captain Kim Little.”

How would you describe Renee Slegers' impact during her period as interim before becoming permanent Head Coach?

Jamie: “Since the departure of former head coach Jonas Eidevall last October, Arsenal have completely transformed themselves under Slegers. After winning all 11 fixtures as interim head coach prior to the Christmas break, it was a no brainer that the Gunners had to award Slegers with the permanent position.

“The side seem to be playing with far greater freedom and creativity, with many players going as far to say that they are enjoying their football far more. England captain and Arsenal defender Leah Williamson told the media she "enjoys coming into work every morning" since Slegers took the role in October.

“The biggest change that has arrived since Slegers took the post seems to be the utilisation of the subs bench during times of need. The head coach seems to have mastered the ability to change the game from the bench when the gamestate requires an injection of change, something Robert Vilahamn will want to keep a keen eye on come Sunday's game.”

What can we expect from Arsenal heading into the north London derby this weekend?

Jamie: “Much like Spurs, Arsenal will come into the north London derby hungry for victory. The highly anticipated fixture always provides the extra edge, and a packed-out Emirates Stadium will certainly bring the noise.

“Deadline day signing Chloe Kelly is likely to make her debut for the Gunners this Sunday, something that may pose a challenge to Tottenham if they aren't prepared. Spurs will need to stay vigilant and strong-minded in order to dismantle Arsenal this weekend.”