Danny Welbeck believes he is benefiting from a full pre-season after scoring twice in Arsenalâs comfortable win over Bournemouth on Saturday.
The England international has struggled with serious injuries in the past two seasons and was limited to just 15 Premier League starts since the beginning of the 2015-16 campaign.
He is now fully fit and he scored his first league brace since playing for Manchester United in 2013, as well as laying on an assist for Alexandre Lacazette, in a straightforward 3-0 win over the Cherries.
Welbeckâs second goal was praised by manager Arsene Wenger and Welbeck reckons his preparations have allowed him to hit the ground running this year.
âThe past two years I didnât have a pre-season and that made it a bit difficult for me,â he said.
âIâm pleased to have a pre-season. With some of the games that weâve played at the start of the season itâs not gone too well, but Iâm pleased to be on the scoresheet and long may it continue.
âThe second goal is one that, once youâve been hitting those repetitions in training, it becomes a lot easier for you to do. I got into that position and I didnât think twice about it.â
Welbeckâs brace inspired the Gunners to a much-needed victory following two successive defeats heading into the international break â including a 4-0 loss at Liverpool.
Bournemouth offered very little at the Emirates Stadium having pushed Manchester City all the way last time out.
Manager Eddie Howe was unhappy with the display and, with Bournemouth still without a point so far this season, midfielder Dan Gosling wants a reaction against Brighton on Friday night.
âWe need to bounce back,â he told the clubâs official website.
âBrightonâs coming up to a must-win game at the moment, we need to get our season up and running now with this home game.
âThe boys were unlucky against Man City, but we canât keep saying that because against Arsenal we were nowhere near it. Next week every single man has to be better, stand up and be counted.â
Provided by Press Association Sport