Team News: Danny Welbeck returns for Arsenal

Arsenal striker Danny Welbeck has recovered from injury to make his first start in 2015 in the North London derby against Tottenham Hotspur.

The England international hasn't featured since December 28, but he takes his place in the starting lineup as the Gunners attempt to move five points clear of their rivals.

Manager Arsene Wenger had hinted that Alexis Sanchez could feature in the squad despite a hamstring strain, but he misses out, while Theo Walcott drops to the substitutes' bench.

As for Spurs, boss Mauricio Pochettino welcomes back midfielder Nabil Bentaleb after his return from the Africa Cup of Nations.

Defender Eric Dier has also been drafted into the centre of defence at the expense of Fazio, who drops to the bench.

Tottenham Hotspur XI: Lloris; Walker, Dier, Vertonghen, Rose; Bentaleb, Mason; Eriksen, Dembele, Lamela; Kane Subs: Vorm, Davies, Fazio, Chadli, Paulinho, Stambouli, Soldado

Arsenal XI: Ospina, Bellerin, Mertesacker, Koscielny, Monreal, Coquelin, Ramsey, Welbeck, Cazorla, Ozil, Giroud Subs: Szczesny, Gibbs, Gabriel, Flamini, Rosicky, Walcott, Akpom

Listen to the views of a couple of the Sports Mole team as they preview the encounter at White Hart Lane.

Keep track of the fixture by following Sports Mole's live commentary.