Olivier Giroud: Arsene Wenger says Arsenal striker is set for early return from injury and will partner Danny Welbeck up front

Giroud had been ruled out until early December at the earliest with broken leg

Giroud suffered the injury against Everton in August (Getty Images)

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has revealed that striker Olivier Giroud is "ahead of schedule" as he recovers from a broken leg, and could form a partnership with Danny Welbeck.

Giroud had been ruled out until early December until the earliest after suffering a broken left tibia during Arsenal's 2-2 draw at Everton in August, but Wenger says that the 27-year-old is recovering well after surgery and could find himself playing in a new two-man attacking formation for the Gunners with Welbeck.

"Olivier Giroud is recovering very well," Wenger told beIN Sports.

"I believe he is ahead of schedule in terms of rehabilitation. The operation went perfectly.

"Welbeck and [Giroud] can play together in the centre or separately."

Welbeck has scored four goals in six Arsenal appearances (PA)

The Arsenal manager however, did add that Welbeck could be forced back on the wing, where he played for the majority of his Manchester United career.

"Welbeck also played on one side to Manchester United. Welbeck played in the same team with Rooney and van Persie. He can play down the sides."