When it comes to Danny Welbeck, the jury remains out. Whilst his movement and ability to get on the end of chances is great, he’s simply hasn’t been clinical enough this season. He was pretty woeful against Norwich on the weekend wasting 3-4 great chances. His afternoon was summed up by one of the misses of the season, as he contrived to keep his head away from an almost perfect cross and avoid making the touch that would have won United the game (before Ryan Giggs went on to do just that).
So should Sir Alex Ferguson persevere or start offering more chances to other members of his squad?
The one thing that holds Welbeck in good stead is his remarkably astute link-up play. His movement and passing around the opponent’s box could put some older strikers to shame. He knows when to hold onto the ball and he has the ability to do exactly that. He can pass and move quickly and find space for himself on the ball. When there are no other options he also has access to a bag of flicks and tricks.
This technical ability is what separates him from the likes of other English strikers like Darren Bent and Peter Crouch.
He’s obviously not faultless in the final third. Sometimes he makes the wrong decision, or doesn’t deliver the final ball that he ought to. However, at just 21-years-old, Welbeck has plenty of time to adjust and adapt his game around the rigours of the Premier League. Yes there’s still room for him to grow but there’s plenty of time for him to do this.
It’s equally clear that Manchester United’s football is better when Danny Welbeck is in the team. It’s quicker, slicker and a little more potent.
Javier Hernandez doesn’t seem to have recaptured his form of last season after being out for a while through injury, whilst Dimitar Berbatov just doesn’t seem to fit into this United side. Welbeck remains the obvious choice.
He is progressing very nicely for his age and deserves some credit for his contributions this season. It’s easy to forget that he’s learning his trade and yet is still capable of keeping Berba and Hernandez out the side. His ability is clear and this, combined with a great attitude and a will to succeed should see him carve out a great career with United. Indeed, handled correctly, Welbeck could go on to be a United great.
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Welbeck goal shy? Give me strength. 9 in his first season as a starter at Old Trafford and offers way more than goals. Think all United fans are happy to see him in the team.