Mo Farah's preparations for his attempt to regain the European cross-country title gather pace this weekend at the Cross de l'Acier in Leffrinckoucke, France.

The 26-year-old recently returned from a high-altitude training camp in Kenya as he bids for a second European title in Dublin on December 13.

Farah goes head to head with Imane Merga in Sunday's 9.5 kilometre race near Dunkirk with the Ethiopian chasing a third successive title at the meeting.

The Briton is the 2006 champion, but faces a difficult field this weekend with the Kenyan trio of Leonard Komon, Moses Masai and Titus Mbishei also competing.

The women's field is led by Vivian Cheruiyot, the world 5000 metres champion, and the 5.75km contest will also include Great North Run winner Jessica Augusto of Portugal and top French star Hind Dehiba-Chahyd.