Arsenal forward Danny Welbeck has had two successful operations to repair his broken ankle, the Premier League club have announced.
The 27-year-old faces a long spell on the sidelines after suffering what the club described as a “significant” injury in last week’s goalless Europa League draw against Sporting.
“Further to sustaining an injury last Thursday against Sporting, Danny has undergone a second planned operation on his right ankle,” Arsenal said in a statement on their official website.
“Both procedures went well, without complications. Danny will now recuperate and start his rehabilitation. It’s too early to say how long this will take. Everyone at the club will now be providing Danny with the best possible treatment and support in order to make him fit again as soon as possible.”
Unai Emery and his squad spoke to Welbeck on FaceTime before their game against Wolves on Sunday, Bernd Leno has revealed.
The goalkeeper said the squad got in touch with the striker during their team meeting and Welbeck “looked very happy”. Arsenal were motivated to beat Wolves by Welbeck’s plight, Leno said, though they ended up drawing 1-1.
“We had a FaceTime session with him,” Leno said. “It was very good; we wanted to win for him. We all are sorry for him and hope he will have a good recovery and to see him on the pitch, because he’s an important player for the team and also in the dressing room. I think this meeting was very motivating for us and for every player to play for Danny, because everybody likes him.”
Welbeck’s mood was described as upbeat. “He looked very happy and I think he was happy to talk to us because he is still a big part of our team and we will support him when he is injured,” Leno said.