Premier League preview: Arsenal v Tottenham

The 28-year-old injured his ankle on international duty for England in September, but returned to training this week, almost a month ahead of schedule.

Defoe’s availability, however, comes as midfielder Tom Huddlestone begins a three-month lay-off with an ongoing ankle injury that will require surgery, while Robbie Keane and Aaron Lennon remain long-term absentees.

Tottenham returned to the winner’s list with a 4-2 triumph over Blackburn at the weekend, their first league victory in five games, and are equal on 19 points with fifth-placed Bolton.

Former Arsenal defender William Gallas will be in for a rowdy reception from the Emirates faithful after transferring to Spurs in the off-season; a move that saw him become just the sixth player since 1913 to cross to the Gunners’ bitter rivals.

Arsene Wenger’s side have rebounded strongly after a shock 1-0 defeat to Newcastle earlier this month, racking up away wins at Wolverhampton and Everton in their last two fixtures to sit just two points behind league-leaders Chelsea.

Manuel Almunia (elbow), Aaron Ramsey (leg), Thomas Vermaelen (Achilles) and Abou Diaby (ankle) all remain unavailable for selection for Wenger, who may welcome Robin van Persie back into the starting line-up after the Dutchman sat on the bench at Goodison Park on the weekend.

Arsenal won the corresponding fixture 3-0 last season.