- Michael Owen backs Danny Welbeck for England’s World Cup squad
- Brighton & Hove Albion striker has scored 13 Premier League goals this season
- Thomas Tuchel set to announce England squad on Friday
Former England striker Michael Owen believes Danny Welbeck has done enough to earn a place in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for this summer’s World Cup.
Welbeck has enjoyed one of the strongest Premier League campaigns of his career with Brighton & Hove Albion. The striker has scored 13 league goals and played a leading role in the club’s push for Europe.
With England captain Harry Kane certain to lead the line, competition for supporting striker spots remains fierce ahead of Tuchel’s squad announcement on Friday.
Michael Owen praises Danny Welbeck’s quality
Speaking to Sussex World, Owen said Welbeck deserves greater recognition for his performances in recent years.
“I love Danny. I played alongside him in my career. He’s a great lad. Part of me always used to think that he’s almost been a little bit of a wasted talent.
“Because he’s so talented and it’s only in recent years I think he’s gained the recognition that his ability deserves. He’s a top player.
“Should he go to the World Cup? He’s not going to let anyone down if he’s in the squad.”
Owen represented England at the 1998 2002 and 2006 World Cups and believes Welbeck’s experience could prove valuable on the international stage.
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England striker battle heats up before squad announcement
Ollie Watkins and Dominic Calvert-Lewin are also pushing for places after both scored 14 Premier League goals this season.
Owen admitted Tuchel may only select one or two reserve forwards behind Kane.
“I wouldn’t be taking too many centre-forwards personally,” Owen added to Sussex World.
“I’d just be taking one maybe two behind Harry Kane. And then I guess it’s Ollie Watkins it’s Danny Welbeck it’s Calvert-Lewin. Take your pick one or two out of those. I like Danny and I think he’s a good player.”
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Michael Owen backs Brighton forward after standout season
Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler has also thrown his support behind Welbeck following an impressive campaign for the Seagulls.
Speaking ahead of Brighton’s final Premier League match against Manchester United, Hurzeler praised the striker’s professionalism and consistency.
“I think it’s a sign of his professionalism of how hard he works of his daily work ethic and I’m really happy for Danny for his season,” Hurzeler said ahead of Brighton’s clash with Manchester United.
“Let’s wait until tomorrow that hopefully he will be announced for the England squad.
“Then I think he gets the rewards he deserves because of his achievements this season and therefore hopefully he can do it another time for us on Sunday against Manchester United.
“He played the most minutes ever in the Premier League and therefore it shows that even when you get older you still have a chance that you can improve that you can achieve things.”
A return to the England set up would complete a remarkable resurgence for Welbeck, whose form and fitness have made him one of Brighton’s standout performers this season.
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