The 17-year-old replaced Park Ji Sung after an hour of
yesterday’s contest at Old Trafford and went on to score the fourth
goal of the afternoon.
After playing a neat one-two with fellow substitute Manucho,
Welbeck then hit a superb shot from fully 30 yards into the top
corner for a glorious debut goal.
Speaking to MUTV after the game the striker was
happy to describe his goal.
“I got the ball on the edge of the centre-circle and I knew Ryan
Shawcross was behind me. I played a one-two with Manucho, took a
touch and just thought, ‘I’m going to hit it’," he said.
“I was just relieved to see it hit the back of the net. I’m not
going to lie, I’ve seen replays of it a few times already!”
Welbeck had already impressed earlier in the week in the Carling
Cup victory over Queens Park Rangers, yet yesterday’s appearance
was his first in the Premier League and he is clearly enjoying life
as a Red Devil.
“It feels amazing,” he admitted.
“Scoring in front of the Stretford End is what every young boy
from Manchester dreams of. I loved it. I wouldn’t say I’ve dreamt
about it, but I’ve thought about it every day of my life ever since
I started playing football. There’s nothing better.”
Manchester-born Welbeck joined the club as a trainee in 2006 and
although he is clearly hoping to make the grade at Old Trafford, he
is keeping his feet on the ground.
Welbeck continued, “I’m sure the manager will help me keep my
feet on the ground but I’m quite level-headed anyway, so I’ll just
take it all in my stride.
"I just want more opportunities. It’s made me hungry for more.
Playing with these players in the first team – there’s no better
experience. I’m willing to learn and improve as much as I can as a
player.”
