Paul Merson has been more generous than I would be in selecting a combined Arsenal and Spurs north London XI.

The League Cup third round pits Arsenal against Spurs on Wednesday night, with the two sides meeting at White Hart Lane.

“It doesn’t get any bigger than Wednesday night, Merson told SkySports. “Despite the competition, and I hope Wenger treats it that way – if Arsenal lose this game then he’s under a bit of pressure.

“It really is a very big match and what Charlie and Thommo did in the draw has really given a boost to the Capital One Cup.”

Merson then went on to pick an XI made up of players from the two sides, and chose just three players form Tottenham.

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Paul Merson’s combined north London XI. (SkySports)

“The Tottenham players are through the spine, which is where I’ve always said Arsenal have struggled,” Merson explained before defending the form of Harry Kane, who has scored just once in his last 12 appearances for Spurs.

That goal came last season and, though Olivier Giroud and Theo Walcott have netted twice this campaign, both Arsenal men were snubbed by the former England international.

“If you’re a centre-forward you’re only as good as those around you and that Tottenham midfield is not that good. At Arsenal he’d get 20-plus goals again this season for sure.”

Alexis Sánchez has also struggled for goals this season but makes the side as, to be honest, Spurs don’t have any decent alternatives.

“This team is on what they can do, not on form as Sanchez wouldn’t make it in otherwise as he’s done nothing this season,” Merson said.

“It’s a close one between Cech and Lloris but Lloris is seriously top draw, I’d definitely have him in the world class category.

“It was a toss up as to whether Vertonghen gets in but Koscielny has delivered for a number of seasons now and I really like Alderweireld.

“Ramsey hasn’t scored in ages, I think it’s over 10 games now, but does score big goals in big football matches so he gets the nod ahead for Christian Eriksen.”