• Premier League

Giroud may make early return, says Wenger

Olivier Giroud injured himself in Arsenal's 2-2 draw at Everton in August © Getty Images

Enlarge

Arsene Wenger has suggested Olivier Giroud could be back playing for Arsenal sooner than expected and that the striker might find himself partnering Danny Welbeck once he returns to the fold.

Giroud suffered a broken left tibia in the 2-2 draw against Everton in August and the forward's extended lay-off - thought to be until early 2014 following surgery - compelled Wenger to sign Welbeck from Manchester United on transfer deadline day.

• Can Hull avenge their FA Cup final defeat to the Gunners this Saturday with a win at the Emirates ? , at 13/2 with bet365*
• For full odds visit www.bet365.com >>
• *All odds correct at time of publishing.

"Olivier Giroud is recovering very well. I believe he is ahead of schedule in terms of rehabilitation. The operation went perfectly," Wenger told beIN Sports.

The news will come as a huge boost to Arsenal, with the club currently suffering somewhat of an injury crisis as of late. Nine key players remain sidelined - including the likes of Mesut Ozil, Laurent Koscielny and Mathieu Debuchy - which has left Wenger surprisingly short of options this early in the season.

It appeared to have gotten worse for the Frenchman when Welbeck limped off during England's Euro 2016 qualifying victory in Estonia on Sunday, although Roy Hodgson quickly moved to ease Wenger's fears.

Welbeck has been in fine form for Arsenal since his £16 million-move to the Emirates Stadium and has scored four goals in six appearances for his new club. Wenger is now keen to play Welbeck alongside Giroud.

The manager added: "Welbeck and [Giroud] can play together in the centre or separately. Welbeck also played on one side to Manchester United. Welbeck played in the same team with Rooney and van Persie. He can play down the sides."

Lukas Podolski could provide another option too, although the striker is far from happy with a lack of game time in north London.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd