Day 5

Today was finally the day that the team got to fully embrace what English football is all about. We split our day between the two massive North London rivals: Arsenal and Tottenham. These clubs are separated merely by a few miles. The tension between them is palpable. It is certainly one of the fiercest rivalries in the Premiership. 

Our first stop was to Islington to take a tour of Arsenal's futuristic Emirates Stadium. Having been opened within the last ten years, it is one of the most modern and impressive stadia in the league. It was designed by the same man that built Wembley so some similarities were evident. However, the tour was in many ways more impressive as we got to sample the stadium for ourselves without the burden of a guide. We explored the team museum, walked through the director's box, went through the changing rooms and right up to pitch side.

Having packed away any Arsenal merchandise we purchased, we proceeded on to White Hart Lane, the home of Tottenham Hotspur to watch a pre season friendly between Spurs and German side Schalke. More different in design and style from the Emirates it could not be. White Hart Lane is a classic English stadium embedded right into the middle of city. 

Despite the friendly nature of the game, the atmosphere was electric. Spurs got off to the better start and led by 1 at the break through giant Togo striker Emmanuel Adebayor. The second half was an even better spectacle as Spurs extended their lead through Roberto Soldado after fantastic work by winger Andros Townsend. Many great chances were exchanged before the mercurial Kevin Prince-Boateng scores a late consolation for the Germans. 

Everyone went home with smiles on their faces. For many it was their first experience of live european football and it won't soon be forgotten. An even better proposition lies ahead tomorrow as we head back to Wembley to see the Community Shield between Arsenal and Manchester City. I think it's safe to say the boys are buzzing!

Also on a side note, we had a "selfie of the day" challenge. This was shared by Kevin Nowak and a late entry by Drew Sommer who found Liverpool legend, and childhood hero of mine, Steve Mcmanaman in our hotel lobby!