He’s back! After nearly 10 months out, Danny Welbeck played an hour in Arsenal’s u21 win over Brighton on Friday.

The England international has been out with a knee injury since last April, and his long-awaited return will be a huge boost for the Gunners, especially after losing Tomas Rosicky to another injury. A 4-1 win was, for obvious reasons, positive news, but Welbeck’s return was the highlight for Arsenal fans.

As Welbeck can play wide or up front, he’s a huge asset to have in the squad and his fitness seems even further along than expected. He was only supposed to play a half of the u21 fixture at London Colney on Friday afternoon, but came through an hour without any issues.

Last season was Welbeck’s first at Arsenal, and he proved his worth to the team even if he wasn’t regularly on the scoresheet. Alexis Sánchez’ best run in front of goal came with Welbeck ahead of him, while Arsenal simply had another dimension out wide when the 25-year-old was on the wing. His selflessness, speed and strength all allowed him to regularly impact games, making us a better team when he was around.

His return couldn’t come at a better time, with the Arsenal squad looking a little laboured as the final few months of the season approach. Jack Wilshere could be back soon too, adding to the squad recently bolstered by the fit-again Francis Coquelin and Alexis Sánchez.

After an hour on Friday, Welbeck will be hoping to be involved for the Gunners within the next few weeks. Four weeks on Sunday? Arsenal play Manchester United at Old Trafford.