Welbeck aims to be a cut above the rest
Shaun Botterill /
Getty Images
If his blossoming football career ever falters, there is no chance of Danny Welbeck seeking alternative employment as a surgeon.
Faced with the sight of a gaping wound in Wayne Rooney's leg at Old Trafford last Saturday, Welbeck recoiled in horror.Life around the operating table is not for him.
"The referee blew the whistle as I was going up to challenge for the ball," he told MUTV.
"I turned round and Wayne was holding his leg.
"I got a bit closer and it was like a surgeon has been in with a knife and scraped a line in his leg."
Welbeck's reaction was swift, spinning away with his hand to his mouth. Not one for the squeamish
"It wasn't me," he admitted at his reaction.
Thankfully, Welbeck remains on an upward trajectory at Manchester United.
The 21-year-old recently signed an improved contract and with Rooney sidelined, is set to be England's leading forward when they open their World Cup qualifying campaign in Moldova next Friday.
Indeed, the only downside for Welbeck at present comes from the arrival of Robin van Persie and Shinji Kagawa, whose performances against Fulham last weekend threatened to reduce the Longsight-born player's role with the Red Devils.
Not that Welbeck sees it that way.
"It is really healthy competition," he said. "We have a wide variety of strikers to choose from and that creates a good selection problem for the manager. It will have a good effect on the team."
Welbeck has been involved in both matches so far this season and is expected to play some part at Southampton on Sunday as United look to build on that Fulham win, which will be helpful as he tries to reach full match fitness.
"It takes a while to get your fitness up," he said. "I have had a couple of games. I am looking forward to pushing on now and getting 90 minutes under my belt."
Welbeck does have form against Southampton, scoring in an FA Cup tie at St Mary's Stadium a couple of years ago.
Saints' fortunes have improved markedly since then, although Ian Adkins' men have not made a seamless transition back to life in the top flight.
A battling display in their opening game at Manchester City ultimately ended without any points, while they then lost at home to Wigan.
"I have watched both their games so far," Welbeck said. "They have played some really good football and have a few players to watch out for. Adam Lallana in particular is excellent.
"But the most important thing is to concentrate on our own team and make sure we play the right way."
With Jonny Evans available after his ankle operation, Michael Carrick should slot back into midfield.
Nani should also be involved after sitting out the Fulham game, which is perfect timing given Ashley Young's knee injury.
0 comments:
Post a Comment