Evening Telegraph (First Edition)
Wenger keen to keep misfiring Welbeck at Arsenal
ARSENE Wenger insists he wants to keep Danny Welbeck at Arsenal despite admitting he is no Harry Kane when it comes to scoring goals.
The Gunners forward is likely to be given another rare start when Ostersund visit the Emirates Stadium for the second leg of their Europa League round of 32 tie tonight.
Arsenal are in complete control having won 3-0 in Sweden last week and should secure safe passage into tomorrow’s draw.
With Alexandre Lacazette injured and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang ineligible in Europe, Wenger turned to Welbeck in Ostersund but the England striker was toothless and was unable to add to the modest total of five goals he has totted up so far this campaign.
The former Manchester United man has struggled with injuries ever since arriving from Old Trafford in 2014 and his contract in up at the end of next season.
Despite his patchy fitness and the club breaking their transfer record twice in six months to land Lacazette and Aubameyang, Wenger is keen to keep Welbeck at Arsenal.
“I want to keep him because I believe he has gone through a torrid time,” explained Wenger.
“He has come out well. I see signs in training now that are positive. If he can stay on the pitch and not be injured, I want him to stay here.
“I like him because he can play left, right or up front.
“He might not be a goalscorer like Harry Kane for example, but for England he can perfectly play with Harry Kane because he can play on the flanks.”