Welbeck returns to Arsenal training after 7-month layoff

Danny Welbeck is nearing a return to Arsenal's matchday squad for the first time since May 8, when he went down with a knee injury at Manchester City.

The issue, suffered late in the 2015-16 campaign, cruelly denied the ex-Manchester United forward a spot in Roy Hodgson's England squad at Euro 2016, and meant his club had to strengthen its attacking options in the summer with the £17-million signing of Lucas Perez.

"It is fantastic. For him, it is like starting a new career because he has been out for such a long time," manager Arsene Wenger told BBC Sport.

Wenger, speaking to the press ahead of Boxing Day's visit from West Bromwich Albion, did note that he intends to be "patient" with Welbeck after the 26-year-old was sidelined for seven-and-a-half months due to knee surgery.

Welbeck was joined by Aaron Ramsey in Friday's full training session following a recent hamstring complaint, but defender Shkodran Mustafi isn't expected back until the beginning of January.

Despite the legion of players in the treatment room - something that often leaves Arsenal hamstrung in its pursuit for honours - Wenger made no suggestion that he'll delve into the January transfer market.

The Gunners end the year with the Boxing Day tilt, before beginning 2017 with a New Year's Day hosting of Crystal Palace, which by then could be overseen by Sam Allardyce following Alan Pardew's sacking on Thursday.