England will announce their World Cup squad this week, with Brighton star Danny Welbeck being mooted as an option for a backup striker.
Danny Welbeck’s goal puts him in contention for England squad (Image: Getty Images)
Brighton manager Fabian Hürzeler has insisted that Danny Welbeck’s inclusion in England’s World Cup squad is “a well-deserved reward given his achievements”.
The forward is among those being discussed for a place in manager Thomas Tuchel’s squad, which will be announced on Friday. Harry Kane is England’s elite striker, but while there is plenty of competition for his position, it is unclear how many No.9s the Three Lions will choose.
Welbeck, now 35, has scored 14 goals for Brighton this season and has begun his charge towards Europe. This is a career high for the former Manchester United frontman, who continues to blossom as he ages.
He has been considered out of reach by both United and Arsenal in the past, but his perseverance has paid off and Brighton believes he is well-deserved to earn a spot in the World Cup squad.
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Hürzeler said: “I think it’s a testament to his professionalism, how hard he works and his work ethic every day. And I’m really happy for Danny’s season. Let’s wait until tomorrow. I hope he’s announced for the England squad.”
“Then I think he’ll be rewarded accordingly for what he did. This is the season, so hopefully he can do it again for us on Sunday.”
Welbeck previously represented England at Euro 2012, scoring a come-from-behind victory over Sweden. It was one of his 16 international goals, his most recent being against Costa Rica in 2018. He has just recorded back-to-back seasons in which he has scored double figures for the first time in his career, highlighting his consistency and form and giving Tuchel something to think about.
Danny Welbeck hasn’t played for England for years (Image: GETTY)
Ollie Watkins is said to be a potential player behind Kane. The Aston Villa star has just helped his team win the Europa League and enjoyed an iconic moment when he scored the goal to beat the Netherlands in the Euro 2024 semi-final. Leeds ace Dominic Calvert-Lewin has returned to form this term and shined for the Yorkshire side, while Tottenham’s Dominic Solanke is also in contention, as is Ivan Toney, who is currently playing in Saudi Arabia.
But Welbeck has shown his durability, with the Brighton manager adding: “It’s hard to point to one thing. What’s impressive to me is his development, the process he’s gone through, because I think he’s scored more goals than any player in history in the last two seasons.”
“He played the most minutes in the history of the Premier League, so it shows that even as he gets older, he has the potential to grow and achieve something.”
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