Tottenham v Arsenal preview

Tottenham boss Andre Villas-Boas is unlikely to tweak too much given their recent run of form, with all eyes set to be on Gareth Bale once again when Spurs play host to North London neighbours Arsenal.

The Welsh winger has netted eight times in his last six appearances - including a number of spectacular strikes - and Arsenal must find a way of keeping him quiet if they are to shackle Spurs.

Clint Dempsey remains about a week away from a return to fitness as he continues to nurse a calf complaint.

Jermain Defoe remains sidelined with a foot injury, meaning Emmanuel Adebayor will continue to lead the line, while Tom Huddlestone (knee) is also on the treatment table.

Arsenal will be without defender Bacary Sagna for their short trip to White Hart Lane.

The French full-back is struggling with a knee injury and has been ruled out of contention by Arsene Wenger.

The Gunners boss may, however, welcome Abou Diaby into his ranks on Saturday, with the midfielder rated at 50-50 to shake off a calf problem.

Left-back Kieran Gibbs is out with a thigh injury, but Laurent Koscielny and Lukas Podolski are pushing hard for recalls after finding themselves on the bench for last weekend's home date with Aston Villa.