Wenger patient after Arsenal striker rejoins training

Danny Welbeck is back in training. Credit: PA

Arsene Wenger believes Danny Welbeck's return from a second serious knee injury in 18 months will be "almost like starting a new career".

Welbeck is back in training for the first time in seven months, following his knee cartilage injury in Arsenal's 2-2 draw at Manchester City on May 8.

The England forward had only just returned from 10 months of problems with his left knee when suffering that fresh blow at the end of last term.

Aaron Ramsey is also on the comeback trail after hamstring trouble, but remains doubtful for Boxing Day's home Premier League clash with West Brom.

"There's good news in that Welbeck will join in training today, for the first time having been out for a long time," said Wenger.

"I'm cautious with Ramsey but even more cautious with Welbeck because he'll need some time.

"Of course it's fantastic for him to be back, because for him it's like starting a new career because he's been out for such a long time. So we have to be patient.

"I don't know if Ramsey will be involved (against West Brom) but he's back in training today."