Welbeck Shines Again: Veteran Striker Proves Pivotal in Brighton Win

Better With Age? Welbeck Proves Vital for Brighton Once Again

Danny Welbeck turned back the clock with a sensational match-winning display as Brighton edged past Newcastle United 2-1 at the Amex Stadium. At 34, the veteran forward continues to be a decisive figure for the Seagulls — scoring both goals, including a late winner, to lift his side to victory.

What made it more dramatic? Manager Fabian Hürzeler had been preparing to sub him off — right before Welbeck delivered the final blow.

“I was thinking of taking him off,” Hürzeler admitted post-match. “Then he surprised me again. Sometimes, it’s about timing – and that was good timing.”

0.36 Goals Per Game in His 30s

Welbeck is defying the aging curve. With a goal-per-game rate of 0.36 in his thirties, he’s outscoring his younger self.

This season alone, he’s bagged braces against both Chelsea and Newcastle, showcasing not just form, but reliability in big games. His brace on Saturday brought Brighton a vital three points and earned him the Player of the Match award.

“I feel strong and fit. I won’t be stopping soon,” said Welbeck, who turns 35 next month.

Experience + Instinct = Match Winner

The second goal was a classic striker’s moment — reacting quickest after Mats Wieffer’s effort was blocked, Welbeck swept the ball home from the edge of the box. Moments earlier, Nick Woltemade had equalised with a backheel, setting up a tense finish.

“I was wondering if it could fall nicely for me, and it did,” Welbeck said. “I stuck it away.”

Welbeck’s impact stats are eye-catching:

• 11 of his last 12 PL goals have either put Brighton ahead or level

• 5 of those have been winning goals

• 3 have come against Newcastle in the past 12 months

The Newcastle Nemesis

Newcastle fans know the name too well. Welbeck:

• Scored the winner in the reverse fixture last October

• Netted the decisive goal in the FA Cup clash at St. James’ Park in March

• Now adds another brace in front of the Amex crowd

Even Eddie Howe praised his performance:

“To still be playing like this at his age is a credit to him. His first goal was excellent — the run, the composure, the finish past Nick Pope.”

A Leader On and Off the Ball

Under Hürzeler, Brighton lead the league in high turnovers, and Welbeck is a key contributor — not just with goals, but with relentless pressing and recovery runs.

Hürzeler summed it up:

“He’s a top professional. 100% effort every training session, great recovery habits, and he always puts the team first.”

Welbeck’s leadership and selflessness have become as valuable as his finishing — and that’s saying something.