Arsenal without Welbeck after knee operation

The 24-year-old, signed from Manchester United on deadline day in September 2014, last played in April, missing both the FA Cup final and end-of-season internationals.

Despite hopes Welbeck would be able to recover from bone bruising around the knee, Arsenal announced on Thursday the player had needed an operation and was now set for an extended spell of rehabilitation.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger had hoped Welbeck would be available soon after the international break.

However, following an increased training schedule, it was decided surgery would be needed.

A statement from Arsenal read: "Danny Welbeck has undergone surgery on his left knee after being unable to sufficiently step up his rehabilitation work."

It concluded: "Danny is now expected to be out for a period of months and everyone at Arsenal wishes him well."