Welbeck shines as Arsenal outmuscle Manchester United to reach FA Cup semis

Discarded forward Danny Welbeck produced a scintillating performance as he helped defending champions Arsenal sweep aside Manchester United 2-1 to seal a semifinal berth at Wembley.

Defender Nacho Monreal put the FA Cup holders ahead in the 25th minute before Wayne Rooney secured an equalizer for United with a flying header from Angel Di Maria's cross four minutes later.

Welback, who joined Arsenal from United in a 16million pounds deal on deadline day in September, netted the winning goal as he doubled the lead for Arsenal in the 61st minute.

Subsequently, star winger Angel Di Maria was sent-off for two yellow cards for dive and grab at referee before Arsenal netted the winning goal, the BBC reported.

Arsenal are now favourites to reach another FA Cup final after drawing either Reading or Bradford City in the semi-final.