Olivier Giroud is Arsenal’s only fit striker and Joel Campbell has started Arsenal’s last three games on the right wing. Meanwhile, on the left, Alexis Sánchez is looking increasingly exhausted.

What would we do for Danny Welbeck right now?

Strong, hard-working, unselfish and versatile, Welbeck would be perfect for the Arsenal squad but the former Manchester United man hasn’t played since suffering a knee injury in April.

After constantly being told he would return soon, Arsenal confirmed in September the player had undergone surgery, and he is hoping to be back around the beginning of 2016.

“It’s slow and steady but it’s coming along,” he told Arsenal Player. “It’s difficult to see the lads when you’re still in the gym, doing double days, but once I get back out on the pitch and start running I will be much happier. It’s a difficult period for me but I’m looking forward to coming back strong.

“I want to get back out on the pitch, keep on improving, keep training and keep fit – that’s the main thing. I just want to get back to playing football.”

Welbeck has incredible pace and is naturally strong, but is using his time on the sidelines similarly to both Theo Walcott and Mesut Özil, who have focused on becoming stronger for their returns during long term injuries in recent years.

“I’m trying to build to muscle and it’s hard, but it’s something that I’ve grasped with two hands and I’m really looking forward to my return.”

An even stronger Welbeck, with his pace and ability to bring others into play, is an exciting prospect. Regular time on the pitch will be required but Welbeck – when he returns – is ready to become an all-round forward and a huge asset to the club.