Arsenal vs. Manchester United: Key Takeaways from Arsene Wenger's Presser

Arsene Wenger admitted Danny Welbeck isn't guaranteed a central striking role at Arsenal and revealed Alexis Sanchez is a minor doubt to face Manchester United during Friday's pre-game press conference.

Welbeck, who left the Red Devils after receiving limited time in his preferred position, could face a battle to remain the Gunners' main focal point. Wenger hinted as much, per Arsenal's Twitter account:

The Englishman was also confirmed to be doubtful for the visit of his old team, while Wenger confirmed he expects Theo Walcott to sit out:

Perhaps most worryingly of all, Wenger hinted Sanchez may be fatigued after his international exploits, per James Olley of the London Evening Standard:

Olivier Giroud's return is anticipated, per Sky Sports, providing Arsenal with their leading striker for the first time since he broke his leg in August. Welbeck has arrived and established himself since then but a dip in goalscoring form ensures he hasn't made himself an essential inclusion down the middle.

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Welbeck netted four in his opening five matches across the Premier League and Champions League, per WhoScored.com. He has just one in his last seven, however, meaning it's conceivable he will be pushed out wide to facilitate Giroud's return. He said this was "frustrating" during his time at Old Trafford, but his hard-working qualities are often useful in important matches.

He naturally tracks back, provides cover for his defence and supports attacking moves. Welbeck is physical and offers the turn of pace needed to get away from his marker, something he used to regularly show for United. It would be a strange turn of events to see him fulfill a role he previously bemoaned at his old club.

Former United manager David Moyes told the Alan Brazil Sports Breakfast show on talkSPORT that Welbeck was an "excellent player" for him last year. The Real Sociedad boss admitted it was "always going to be hard" for Welbeck to overcome Robin van Persie and Wayne Rooney in the pecking order, though.

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Despite Arsenal's injury problems, this may also become true at the Gunners. Welbeck performed well with England during the international break, as did Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, who netted the opener against Scotland. Jack Wilshere also posted one of his better performances with the Three Lions, something Wenger believes will benefit his team:

Arsenal will be a maximum of one point behind the Champions League places if they defeat United. Obliterated leads against Anderlecht and Swansea prior to the international break saw the pressure increase on Wenger and his troops, but the Emirates faithful will be confident of beating Louis van Gaal's injury-ridden side.

B/R UK's Sam Tighe explains how the home team can do exactly that:

While victory is essential, a Welbeck-inspired result would certainly provide Wenger with plenty to think about.

Welbeck needs to consistently influence fixtures of this importance if he's to remain up top. However, United will be determined to stop their former colleague, who could exploit Van Gaal's lack of centre-backs if he maintains a place through the middle during Saturday's clash.