Spurs’ Wanyama claims North London derby is fun but no Old Firm

Victor Wanyama admits taking part in his first Tottenham-Arsenal clash was an enjoyable experience, even if it doesn’t quite compare to the Old Firm derby.

Wanyama got his maiden taste of North London derby action over the weekend as he played 90 minutes in Spurs’ 1-1 draw at Arsenal.

The Gunners went ahead just before half-time through Kevin Wimmer’s own goal but Harry Kane’s early second-half penalty, on his first game back from injury, ensured it was honours even at the Emirates Stadium.

Wanyama joined Spurs from Southampton for £11million over the summer but before his spell at St Mary’s, spent two years north of the border with Celtic.

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The Kenyan midfielder played in three Old Firm derbies against Rangers during that time – earning himself a red card in one – and claims they are contests like no other.

“Celtic-Rangers is a one-off game really but this derby is good as well,” said Wanyama. “It’s great to play in. I’m just pleased we showed what we can do and we were really strong as a team.

“We needed to come back strong after Leverkusen, we needed to fight, we needed to show our character and we did that.

“We were 1-0 down but our goal gave us the belief to go on and try to win the game. I thought we were in control for long periods and deserved to win.”