Danny Welbeck on course for Christmas return

Arsenal striker Danny Welbeck is expected to return to first-team action by the end of the year, according to reports.

The Gunners had confirmed last week that the England international would be sidelined for a number of months having undergone an ankle surgery.

However, The Telegraph understands that the former Manchester United man could be in line to play Arsenal's Boxing Day fixture at Southampton.

Welbeck joined the Gunners from league rivals United last year, and has since then notched eight goals in 34 appearances for the club.