Danny Welbeck to miss Euro 2016 and most of next Arsenal season with knee injury

Arsenal star Danny Welbeck will be sidelined for around nine month after undergoing surgery in his right knee, his club have confirmed. The former Manchester United striker picked up the issue in the draw with Manchester City on Sunday (8 May), and will consequently miss both Euro 2016 and a huge chunk of next season.

The 25-year-old missed part of the current season after going under the knife in September to address a problem in his other knee. He had made just 16 appearances this campaign, returning to action in February.

However, Welbeck has returned to his best form in that time, scoring five goals, and was expected to be a major part of Roy Hodgson's squad for this summer's Euro 2016. But his participation was thrown into doubt after he limped off midway through the first half during the Gunners' game with Manchester City.

Early reports had the forward out for three months, but Arsenal have now confirmed the reality is much worse. He will miss Euro 2016 and most of next season, not projected to return to first-team action until February 2017.

"Danny Welbeck has had surgery to his right knee," the club confirmed.

"Specialists determined surgery was required after scans and tests revealed significant cartilage damage. The 25-year-old was injured during Sunday's match at Manchester City. Danny will miss the Euro 2016 Championship in the summer and his full recovery is expected to take approximately nine months."

"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."

Welbeck, who in February returned to action with a dramatic winner in a victory over Leicester City, has already sent a message to fans on his Twitter account.