Interviews

Welbeck: We have to relish Newcastle challenge

Striker delighted to be back in the starting line-up in win over Southampton.

By Charlie Hanson • 16 March 2021

By Paul Hazlewood
Danny Welbeck played in Leandro Trossard for Albion's second goal against Southampton.

Danny Welbeck reckons the pressure of facing Newcastle United should be embraced by Albion.

The striker made his first start of 2021 in the win over Southampton on Sunday and played a key role in both of Albion's goals.

Now he is looking forward to kicking on against Steve Bruce's side at the Amex this Saturday.

“After a bit of a setback when I was returning from injury, it was nice to get back into the starting 11 – it was my first start for a little while but I felt good. I feel strong and I am looking forward to next week.

“We played how we set out to and got the goals to show for it. We got the three points which is the most important thing.

“We were pretty solid throughout, although we were punished for a lapse in concentration when they equalised. We created chances, we nullified their attack and dealt well with how they wanted to play. The second goal was a great move, a great finish and one we are definitely happy with.”

Albion will be looking to back up that victory by completing the double over Newcastle, having won 3-0 at St James' Park in September.

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PL: Newcastle 0 Albion 3

A point separates the two as the pair try to pull away from danger at the bottom of the Premier League, but Welbeck believes his teammates need to enjoy the task at hand.

“We are where we are in the table and we’re there for a reason. It doesn't matter if we feel unlucky to be there. The pressure is on us every single game now, but we need to relish the pressure, relish the challenge and the win against Southampton really boosts confidence in the team.

“We're all looking forward to the rest of the season, obviously the Newcastle game is at the forefront of our minds but we'll be ready after a good week of training.”