Welbeck makes comeback for under-21s

Arsenal striker Danny Welbeck made his comeback to action as he started up front alongside Stephy Mavididi in the under-21s 4-1 win over Brighton and Hove Albion at London Colney.

The England international played for 60 minutes as he stepped up his return to football, being substituted for Josh DaSilva after what could prove a valuable amount of playing time.

Twitter: Josh Dasilva replaces Danny Welbeck as the Gunners make their second change 3-0 (60) #AFCU21 (@Arsenal)

Welbeck has been out with injury for nine months since injuring his knee and is yet to appear for the first-team this season, although Arsene Wenger confirmed that he could return by the end of February, should he not suffer any setbacks.

Twitter: Wenger explains why Danny Welbeck’s return will be ‘gradual’. https://t.co/tNFr4DvATi https://t.co/SLxNlTigDM (@ReadArsenalFC)

The return of Welbeck could prove vital in terms of squad depth as the north London side bid to win their first Premier League title since the 2003/04 season, while also looking to challenge for UEFA Champions League glory and retain the FA Cup for the third season in a row – an unprecedented feat in modern day football.