Danny Welbeck has revealed the special phone call he received from Sir Alex Ferguson after scoring an FA Cup winner for Brighton last year. The former Manchester United striker, now 34, netted an extra-time goal against Newcastle to send Brighton to the quarter-finals, prompting a call from his former manager.
Welbeck told BBC Sport: 'After the Newcastle goal, I think he was away in South Africa, and he rang me and he was talking about the goal and the performance. It's 'No caller ID' that always rings, and I was just like, 'Hello?' Sometimes I don't even answer as I don't know who it's going to be, but it was him and he was just buzzing.'
The striker, who made his professional debut under Ferguson at age 17, added: 'To have that connection... he's a manager who was always looking out for his players, always wants the best for them, and still to this day we're still in contact.'
Welbeck's recent winner against Manchester United on Sunday further highlighted his enduring quality. The goal, a superb finish into the top corner, helped Brighton secure a 2-1 victory at Old Trafford, ending United's four-game unbeaten run.
Despite leaving United in 2014, Welbeck has maintained a strong bond with Ferguson. The 42-cap England international won the Premier League in 2013 under Ferguson before moving on to Arsenal, Watford, and Brighton. His nine goals this season surpass any United player's tally, with Bryan Mbeumo leading the Red Devils on seven.
