Arsenal fear Danny Welbeck is out for the season as doctors consider the option of surgery on his right ankle, which suffered a ‘significant’ injury.
Welbeck remained in hospital yesterday after being carried off on a stretcher against Sporting in the Europa League on Thursday night, and was due to have an MRI scan before a final decision is made on whether the striker requires an operation.
Doctors are waiting for the swelling to reduce before making a definitive diagnosis — but there are concerns Welbeck has suffered a break, dislocation and ligament damage.
If an operation is required, Sportsmail understands world-renowned orthopaedic surgeon James Calder, who has worked extensively with Arsenal, would likely lead the procedure.
Calder has operated on Gareth Bale and Jack Wilshere.
Arsenal said Welbeck was still being assessed with a definitive diagnosis due in 72 hours. Welbeck is facing an uncertain future. His deal expires at the end of the season and there is doubt whether he will play for Arsenal again.
Welbeck’s injury could force Arsenal into the transfer market in January, with Lille forward Nicolas Pepe a possibility.
Meanwhile, defender Stephan Lichtsteiner is facing four weeks out after sustaining a hamstring injury against Sporting.