Welbeck: We can't wait for Newcastle

Danny Welbeck relished the part he played in Sunday’s stunning win over his former club Arsenal.

But the striker says the squad have already pressed the reset button after the 3-0 win to focus on Thursday’s trip to Newcastle United.

A third successive win at the Emirates lifted Albion into sixth place, a point clear of their European rivals Spurs and Aston Villa with two games in hand.

“It was a great performance,” said Welbeck. “We had to respond in the right manner after the Everton result and I think we did that, as a team and a club. The hard work in training paid off with a great victory. We showed good maturity and game management against an Arsenal side who have got some amazing players.

“It shows the character of the dressing room to come here, play out from the back and be brave on the ball. It’s not easy to show that courage so credit to everyone – it’s a great day for the club but everyone is now looking forward to another big match at Newcastle on Thursday and we can’t wait to go. We will dust ourselves down and go again.”

Asked if Albion had exceeded expectations this season, Welbeck said that has been part of a process from the day he joined the club in 2020.

“Last season was historical for the club but we knew there were parts where we could improve,” he added. “With the culture within the club we want to keep on improving and pushing each other. We’re not in Europe yet and we will have to do our utmost to reach our goals.

“But as a group we’ve got a great mentality. We stick together. We’re now thinking about a big game at St James’ Park on Thursday so let’s go!”