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Welbeck also played a pivotal role in Brighton<\/a>‘s opener, with his driving run and chipped cross resulting in Brajan Gruda’s goal after Georginio Rutter’s shot was blocked on the line by Patrick Dorgu.<\/p>\n In scoring his own 64th-minute goal, the man capped 42 times by England showed composure, skill and efficiency – often lacking at United since he left.<\/p>\n His first touch took Gruda’s pass out of his feet, while his second placed the ball into the top left corner.<\/p>\n “I knew where the defenders are and I was like, ‘I have to get a touch and the second touch has to be a shot on goal’,” he told TNT Sports.<\/p>\n “It has to be a perfect touch, a little bit away from the defender. It was nice to get that clean connection.”<\/p>\n Since leaving Manchester, the Gunners and a spell at Watford, Welbeck has played an increasingly senior role at Brighton<\/a>, who he joined in 2020.<\/p>\n “To describe him best is to say that he is a role model on the pitch, beside it, a great connector,” said Seagulls manager Fabian Hurzeler.<\/p>\n “He is a great goalscorer, he is there in the right moment. He missed a big chance but good goalscorers never give up, they are always ready.”<\/p>\n Jones was similarly impressed by his performance.<\/p>\n “Today he was incredible,” said the former England centre-back.<\/p>\n “The way he handles himself, the way he carries himself, the way he lives his life right and dedicates himself to football. <\/p>\n “He epitomises that for any young kid watching, the way he goes about his work.”<\/p>\n Welbeck turned 35 in November and this goal was his ninth this season. <\/p>\n The 11 he scored in 2024-25 campaign was the most since his breakout year at Old Trafford in 2012 when he netted 12. <\/p>\n “I can’t give away the secret,” he added when asked about his longevity.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n