A late goal from Danny Welbeck saw Manchester United edge past Arsenal 2-1 and keep in touch with title rivals Manchester City.

After Robin Van Persie had cancelled out Antonio Valencia's first half goal at the Emirates, Welbeck struck nine minutes from time to secure the three points for Sir Alex Ferguson's men.

The result pulls the defending champions to within three points of title rivals City, with Arsenal remaining in fifth place following a third straight league defeat.

Already missing several key defender, United suffered an early blow when Phil Jones was stretchered off with what appeared to be a serious ankle injury.