Arsenal defender Nacho Monreal is set to be available for Saturday’s north London derby against Tottenham after recovering from illness.

The 31-year-old was forced off at half-time during last weekend’s 5-1 win over Everton at Emirates Stadium but is due to return to training in time to face Mauricio Pochettino’s side.

The Gunners are also hopeful that Petr Cech and Danny Welbeck will be fit to return to action as they look to close a four-point gap to Spurs and move closer to the Premier League’s top four.

Cech limped off during the second half against Everton after suffering a kick to his calf. The injury is not thought to be serious and the club are optimistic over his recovery.

Welbeck has been sidelined with a hip problem since Arsenal’s 2-1 defeat at Bournemouth on 14 January but is making good progress and could re-join the group this week.

Record-signing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is likely to continue to lead the line after scoring on his debut while manager Arsene Wenger faces a difficult choice between Jack Wilshere and Aaron Ramsey in central midfield.

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Wilshere had been in fine form prior to picking up an illness last week but Ramsey netted his first Arsenal hat-trick against Everton.