Danny Welbeck set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines after knee surgery

When Danny Welbeck limped out of Arsenal's 2-2 draw with Manchester City at the weekend, we pretty much knew that his Euro 2016 hopes were over.

Days later and it's now emerged that the England international has had surgery on his right knee which will keep him out of action for approximately nine months. A statement posted on Arsenal's official website confirmed that specialists deemed it necessary to operate on him after scans on the knee revealed significant damage to cartilage. The news is a cruel blow to Welbeck who only returned to action in February, having missed a good deal of the season through injury. The 25 year old had looked to establish himself as a regular in Arsene Wenger's team after scoring a last-gasp winner over Leicester City on Valentine's Day. His goal was supposed to kick-start Arsenal's title challenge, but the Gunners fell away, allowing Leicester to claim the Premier League for the first time. Similarly, the former Manchester United striker saw his form drop as he scored just four league goals all season. Still, Arsenal and England will no doubt miss him as he spends yet another extended period on the sidelines following this latest injury.