Arsenal and Tottenham saw out a stalemate 1-1 draw this afternoon at the Emirates in what was a reserved North London derby.

A Kevin Wimmer - who was a surprise inclusion for Mauricio Pochettino's side - own goal had gifted the hosts the lead.

However, shortly into the second half Mousa Dembele was brought down inside the Arsenal box to gift Harry Kane a penalty which he duly converted to mark his return to first team action since injuring himself back in September.

The goal was his 16th in 23 clashes between the two London giants, a remarkable tally for the striker who has been Spurs' top scorer for the past two seasons.

While a point will not be considered a bad result for either, both sides would have been hoping to take more from the game. Arsenal would have found themselves top of the Premier League table with victory, while for Spurs - who are still undefeated in the league - it would have been the result to really kick-start their hit-and-miss season thus far.

These are the five things we at FFC learned from today's derby ...

Tottenham need Kane

Spurs have lacked a cutting edge in the final third since Kane's injury back in September, as new signing Vincent Janssen has failed to have an impact since his arrival from AZ Alkmaar.

Kane's return was colossal for Tottenham. The Englishman provides the front line with that much needed vanguard, as he links up excellent with the midfielders around him and is happy to both poach in the box and come deep to collect the ball. If Spurs want to challenge this season, they need him.

Dembele a class act

After all the hype around Mesut Ozil following his wonder goal in mid-week against Ludogorets, the German was made to look like an 15-year-old playing his first game of men's football today against Mousa Dembele.

The domineering Belgian commanded the midfield all game, breaking up play and breaking forward when given the opportunity, even winning the penalty for his side early in the second half. I would struggle to name another midfielder better on the ball than Dembele in the Premier League.

Defence takes time

Arsenal have an array of midfield and attacking wealth at their disposal, however ultimately it will be their defence which will be their downfall come the seasons end if they aren't careful.

Koscielny and Mustafi are forming a decent partnership, but their inability to communicate was once again demonstrated especially for Tottenham's goal. If they can sure up their defence - which may well take time - Arsenal are a force to be reckoned with.

Alli not vital

The jubilation of Harry Kane being included in the starting line-up was met quickly with the disappointment at the absence of midfield starlet Dele Alli from the match-day squad.

What was apparent however was, that while he would have certainly been an addition to the side, Tottenham have more than enough numbers to not only cope but find a worthy replacement even for the big games. Son, Dembele, Eriksen, Lamela and even Sissoko are more than capable of filling in, which is only a positive thing.

Undefeated > winning

So, it was not the fiery North London derby everyone had expected.

Why? It is simple.

Tottenham are undefeated in the league, and Arsenal are too besides the opening day. Neither side wanted to lose which is understandable, but did that in turn stop either of them chasing the game and making a real match of it? Staying undefeated is brilliant but it won't necessarily bring you silverware.