Arsenal forward Welbeck out nine months
Arsenal striker Danny Welbeck has been ruled out for nine months after suffering “significant cartilage damage” to his right knee.
The news is a massive blow for Welbeck, who will miss this summer’s European Championship and a large part of next season. The England international only returned to action in February this season after missing nearly 10 months with an injury to his other knee, which also needed surgery.
The latest surgery, to repair cartilage damage, will rule him out of action until next February.
Welbeck had been playing well for Arsenal, scoring five goals since his return, and was set to be included in Roy Hodgson’s squad for the Euros. But the forward had to come off after just 20 minutes of Sunday’s 2-2 draw at Manchester City after appearing to twist his knee when challenging for the ball.
I will be back stronger! :muscle: pic.twitter.com/ueLNSfHxZl
– Danny Welbeck (@DannyWelbeck) May 11, 2016
Welbeck underwent scans on Monday and Tuesday, and Arsenal said he underwent successful surgery on Wednesday.
“Specialists determined surgery was required after scans and tests revealed significant cartilage damage,” the club said in a statement. “Danny will miss the Euro 2016 Championship in the summer and his full recovery is expected to take approximately nine months.”
The club added: “Everyone at Arsenal will be working hard with Danny throughout his recovery and look forward to seeing him back on the pitch as soon as possible.”
