Arsene Wenger admits that the England forward is likely to miss the trip to Old Trafford, with Mikel Arteta, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Mathieu Debuchy definitely ruled out

Danny Welbeck is unlikely to be fit for Arsenal’s trip to Manchester United on Sunday, says manager Arsene Wenger.

Welbeck has been absent from the Gunners’ last two games with a knee injury and looks set to miss out on a potential Premier League reunion with his former club at Old Trafford.

Wenger also confirmed that Mikel Arteta, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Mathieu Debuchy will play no part in the match but is hopeful that Aaron Ramsey could be involved.

“Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Mathieu Debuchy and Mikel Arteta are not ready,” the Frenchman told reporters.

“Danny Welbeck has a little possibility to be fit. Aaron Ramsey is not in training yet but he should be better [on Friday].

“I don’t think we have any big injuries. Maybe Welbeck will be available but, at the moment, he looks short.

“I don’t know how long the others will be out for – it’s difficult to say – but hopefully they will play again this season.”

Welbeck scored the winner for Arsenal in their 2-1 FA Cup triumph over United at Old Trafford earlier this season.