Mikel Arteta: Brighton's Danny Welbeck has always been a 'top player'

The Gunners travel to face Brighton on Wednesday night, aiming to maintain or even extend their five-point lead at the top of the Premier League. However, much of the pre-match focus has centred on Welbeck, who could start against his old club.

Now 35, the striker has scored in his last two appearances and has reached double figures in the league this season. His current tally matches last term's 10-goal return, which stands as the best of his Premier League career.

Arteta, who captained Welbeck during his own playing days at Arsenal, remains a strong admirer of the forward's all-round qualities. The Spaniard believes Welbeck's movement, technical ability and intelligence continue to make him a significant threat.

"As a person, top," Arteta said of Welbeck. "So good in and around the dressing room with the players.

âœWhether he was a starter or a finisher, when he had some long-term injuries as well, always a really positive person around the place.

"As a nine, I think he has everything. He can hold the ball up, he can run in behind, technically very, very good. He can finish actions in the box in different ways. Top player."

Brighton have underlined their faith in the experienced attacker by handing him a 12-month contract extension this week 

READ MORE: No breathing room for Mamelodi Sundowns after Orbit snub