Speaking after Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Wolverhampton Wanderers at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, Emery confirmed the England international needed surgery after breaking his ankle in the midweek Europa League game.

Emery at first appeared to suggest that Welbeck could be back with the club before too long but he also made it clear that he had no idea how long the player’s recovery from the “big injury” might take.

“We spoke with him yesterday and today… I think he’s going to come with us in not a long time. He did the operation Friday,” Emery said.

Asked if Welbeck could be back on the pitch before the end of the season next May, however, Emery said that he simply did not know.

“I think it’s better the doctor say to you. It’s a big injury. The doctor can say better than me,” he said.