Cole: Big Season For Welbeck

Former striker and Treble-winner Andy Cole says the forthcoming season could be pivotal in Danny Welbeck’s career.

The young Mancunian forced his way into Sir Alex Ferguson’s starting XI last term with a string of fine performances. He netted 12 goals, including important strikes against Manchester City and Arsenal, while forging a close understanding with fellow hitman Wayne Rooney.

Cole, who banged in 121 goals during his eight seasons at Old Trafford, says Welbeck has the ability to become one of England’s top centre-forwards.

“I love watching Danny play and people ask me a lot about him,” Cole told ManUtd.com.

“Chicharito’s injury last season gave Danny the chance to shine and he took that opportunity. He’s done very well for himself. He got himself into the England squad and, again, he made the most of that chance. First and foremost, he’s not let himself down at any stage.

“So this is going to be a big season for him. He has to try and cement his spot as a first-choice Manchester United striker. He’s more than good enough to do that, but he has to keep doing it. You have to do it season in, season out before people are convinced by you.

“All I can say is that Danny has the attributes required to score plenty of goals. But he needs to decide what sort of striker he wants to be. Does he want to be a great goal scorer or a scorer of great goals?

“Look at the goal he scored for England against Sweden, and some of his goals for United last season... he’s got that predator’s instinct. He can be that sort of player, but he needs to decide is whether or not he wants to be a 20-goal-a-season man or somebody who chips in with 10 or 12 screamers into the top corner.”