Welbeck eager to prove his worth

DANNY Welbeck is determined to repay Sir Alex Ferguson’s faith in him and become the latest local lad to make good in a Manchester United shirt.

The 20–year–old was picked by Ferguson to lead the line against Basle in the Champions League — ahead of the club's record signing Dimitar Berbatov — and responded with two goals in an 80–second spell.

Welbeck’s display was one of the few positives for Ferguson in the 3–3 draw which highlighted some defensive frailty for United, and the England striker is desperate for more opportunities to shine.

Welbeck said: “The manager shows time and again he will give local players a chance and it is then up to the individual to take it. I hope I can.

“I don't know whether it is harder for local boys up front to make it. I can only look at myself and take my opportunities when they come.

“To score those two goals was a bittersweet moment for me. To get two Champions League goals, I am buzzing about that, but we didn’t get the win we should have done.

“I hope I have done enough to play against Norwich. We have some great strikers at the club and whoever is in there will give it 100-per-cent. I just hope I get my chances.”

Welbeck had a successful season on loan at Sunderland last year but believes he is still developing.

“I think I’m a better person than a year ago because I went to Sunderland and got more minutes in the Premier League,” he added.

“It was really good for my career and I’m just really pleased at the moment.”