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Over the years, Danny Welbeck has popped up with important goals for Manchester United, England and now Arsenal. In February, he netted an injury-time winner against Premier League leaders Leicester City to keep the Gunners in the race for the title and appears to have found his touch in front of goal after a long-term injury layoff. However, after a few disappointing results and with a potential FA Cup quarter-final clash with Watford beckoning, it might be time for Arsenal to prioritise their hunt for a third successive victory in England’s oldest club competition.
The England international has a unique knack for getting his name on the scoresheet and, if he stays fit, could play a key role for both club and country in the coming months. Welbeck isn’t exactly a goal machine but he does offer a completely new and unique dimension in attack. For Arsenal, he gives them the option of running in behind the last defender and isn’t afraid to dart down the channels and stretch defences, unlike France international Olivier Giroud – who is much more stagnant in Arsenal’s forward unit.
Frenchman Giroud has struggled for goals as the focal point of Arsene Wenger’s attack and it might be time for the Arsenal boss to give Welbeck the chance to lead the line. The former Manchester United striker scored against his former side in Arsenal’s 3-2 defeat at Old Trafford and his flurry of goals suggests that he is almost back to his best. With an FA Cup replay against Hull City approaching, Welbeck might be the man to lead the Gunners back to Wembley yet again. The striker failed to score in the first clash at the Emirates but might be the key to unlocking Hull’s stubborn defence.
On his day, Welbeck is a truly magnificent prospect but he can struggle for consistency at the top level. In the past, he has failed to respond after being benched and the England striker performs best when given a lengthy run in the side. Once he’s in form, that’s it. But it can take a while for Welbeck to find his feet – especially if only given minimal opportunities to prove his worth. In the cup, Arsenal have looked shaky at times this year and Welbeck’s sheer pace may give them that added spark as they bid to defend their title once again.
In addition, Welbeck’s recent resurgence has given Roy Hodgson something to think about. Should he select the Englishman in his 23-man squad for this summer’s tournament, in which England have favourable odds on betting on Euro 2016. Arsenal (and Manchester United) fans will tell you that he has to. Welbeck has plenty of international experience and could be useful both on and off the field.
England have been paired up with Russia, Wales and Slovakia and Welbeck’s knowledge of European football may give Hodgson’s men a slight edge if he makes the squad. At the time of writing, the Three Lions are 10/11 to top the group in the Euro 2016 group betting markets and Welbeck’s impact could help England to achieve this goal, and possibly more in the latter stages of the competition.
Danny Welbeck is never going to be regarded as a world-class player, however, he is capable of making a major impact on the big stage. He just needs the chance to showcase his talent. His late winner against Leicester proved he was the man for the big occasion and you can’t get much bigger than an FA Cup final and European Championship showdown. With a bit of luck, Welbeck may play a crucial role for both club and country as they hunt down silverware.
