Wenger tips Welbeck for Russia 2018

Arsene Wenger believes Danny Welbeck will go to the World Cup with England if the Arsenal striker can remain fit in the coming months.

The 26-year-old has struggled with injuries since moving to the Emirates Stadium from Manchester United in 2014.

In fact, Welbeck has started just 39 Premier League games in that time and has been recently sidelined with a groin injury suffered in last month’s defeat at Watford.

The forward is expected to make his latest return in tonight’s Europa League tie in Cologne, with the Gunners needing just a point to seal top spot in Group H.

Welbeck featured in England’s World Cup qualifiers against Malta and Slovakia in September and Wenger has backed him to win back his place in Gareth Southgate’s squad – if he can steer clear of further setbacks.

“Danny has the potential to go. If he’s fit, he will go, I’m convinced of that,” Wenger replied, when asked about Welbeck’s World Cup chances.

“I have long experience. I’ve known players who’ve won the World Cup who in November had no chance to go to the World Cup.

“I remember (Emmanuel) Petit in 1998 and was one of main players at the World Cup (for France).”

Wenger took a similar stance when asked about Jack Wilshere’s England prospects as the injury-hit midfielder has come back into his side in the cup competitions this season.