Arsenal: Fearless Danny Welbeck The Second-Half Saviour

Danny Welbeck is finding his match fitness and does not look scared per Arsene Wenger. He could well be the saviour of the second half of Arsenal’s season.

Before Arsenal travelled to St Mary’s for the late kick off on Saturday amidst a dramatic and enthralling FA Cup fourth round, Arsene Wenger was gushing in his praise of Danny Welbeck and the way in which he had handled his lengthy rehabilitation process. Of Welbeck’s then impending return, Wenger stated:

"“At his age and in his position he was sure to go to the European Championship. What happened to him was unbelievable and he was down for a while, but now he looks to have recovered. In training, he still lacks a fraction of zip when he starts [moving]. But overall he looks quite fit. What is the most important is that he doesn’t look scared. That’s the biggest hurdle when you come back nowadays If he manages to get there [to full fitness] quickly, yes [he could be asset this season]”"

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Now, with the match in the rear-view mirror, hindsight shows how accurate Wenger’s comments were. Welbeck was excellent in the five-goal demolition of Southampton, displaying a willingness to run in behind, as evidenced by both his goals, was sharp in his movement and had a subtle first touch, linking up with Lucas Perez particularly well.

The first goal was a wonderful finish, showcasing calmness in front of goal, something that had been a shortcoming in his game prior to injury, with a cute dink over the onrushing Harry Lewis, clipping it off the crossbar for added aesthetics.

The second was vintage Welbeck. A burst of pace forged space in behind the over-matched Jack Stephens, who struggled throughout the 90 minutes. He then collected Oxlade-Chamberlain’s wonderfully clipped diagonal pass and slotted past Lewis once more, despite slightly scuffing the finish.

Welbeck was more than just his two goals, though, and now provides Wenger with ample attacking options. Having not made a start before Saturday’s win, the England international is a versatile attacker who will push the likes of Olivier Giroud and Alex Iwobi for their starting lineups.

Next: Arsenal Vs Southampton: 5 Things We Learned

He could yet be a key member of the squad in the second half of the season. Squad depth and rotation is crucial as the season progresses with Wenger able to keep his players fresh for longer periods. If Arsenal are to haul their way back into the title race, Welbeck could yet be their saviour.

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