Toulouse have not been at their commanding best during the Six Nations due to international call-ups, and will be determined to make amends for defeat at Perpignan last weekend when they welcome Castres to Stade Ernest-Wallon.
Guy Noves's side will need to beat an improving Castres side to move clear of Stade, who went down 22-16 at Montauban on Friday evening. Both sides are level on 66 points, though Toulouse remain top due to a superior won-loss ratio.
Toulouse are missing seven first-team regulars to the Six Nations, captain Jean Bouilhou is absent with a knee injury, but they have David Skrela starting at fly-half with the mercurial Frederic Michalak (pictured) at number nine.
After a slow start to the season Castres have picked themselves up and moved away from the relegation zone thanks to two wins and a draw from their last four games.
Perpignan can keep the pressure on the leaders if they defeat improving Toulon.
The Catalans will be buzzing from their dismantling of Toulouse last week, even if it was a below-strength side, and look well set to continue a run that has seen them lose just one of their last eight games.
Perpignan are without Scotland international Nathan Hines and Chris Cusiter but their form on the road this season - where they have won seven from eight - suggests they will be took strong for the home side.
Toulon have lost just one of their last four to move away from the relegation zone and will look for inspiration from fit-again player-coach Tana Umaga.
Clermont occupy the fourth play-off spot and will look to consolidate their position with a home-win over struggling Bourgoin.
Losses in two of their last three games, including an 18-14 reversal at Biarritz last week, have seen Clermont recently drop off the pace slightly.
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Preview: Toulouse look to extend lead
Preview: Toulouse look to extend lead
