Danny Welbeck ends career-long drought

Brighton forward Danny Welbeck has ended a 17-year wait to hit double figures for goals in the Premier League after converting his penalty against Wolves.

Plagued by injuries for much of his career, Welbeck is capitalising on a relatively clean bill of health since arriving on the south coast.

The former Manchester United, Arsenal, Sunderland and Watford striker has featured in at least 29 league games in three consecutive seasons for the first time in his career.

As a result the 34-year-old is one goal shy of matching his most productive season across all competitions when he netted 12 times for Manchester United in 2011/12.

The former England international was delighted with Saturday's achievement.

"It is a good milestone to have - and I feel like it could have been more," said Welbeck.

"I'm looking forward to improving. We have two more games left and hopefully I'll get some more goals.

His milestone goal was one of two for Brighton on the day as they did their chances of obtaining European football for next season no harm at all."

The win puts them level on points with Brentford, who currently occupy eighth place on goal difference, and they will be hoping to qualify for the 2025/26 UEFA Conference League.

Welbeck's importance has also not been lost on manager Fabian Hurzeler.

The German manager said: "Danny is a special character, an unbelievable role model for everyone, especially the younger players, both on the pitch and on the side.

"On top of that, he is a great goalscorer. I am really happy for him that he has this record."

Brighton host newly-crowned champions Liverpool before a concluding game against Tottenham that may decide their European fate.

William Dobbie

• Brighton and Hove Albion F.C.
• Premier League
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