Welbeck spurred on by Van Persie's arrival at Manchester United, says Carrick

Oct 15, 2012 12:45:00 AM

The Red Devils' midfielder believes that the competition for places up front at Old Trafford has helped the youngster raise his game, with England reaping the benefits

Manchester United and England midfielder Michael Carrick believes that the recent good form of Danny Welbeck can be attributed to Robin van Persie's arrival at Old Trafford.

Despite the introduction of the €30.5 million Dutchman at Old Trafford, Welbeck has risen to the challenge well at both domestic and international level, finding the back of the net twice for England against San Marino on Friday.

And United team-mate Carrick is delighted to see the Three Lions benefiting from the 21-year-old's response to Sir Alex Ferguson's new signing.

"I am a massive fan of Danny’s. I am probably a bit biased because of the United connection. But ever since I first saw him I have expected big things of him," he told The Daily Mirror.


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"He has had a terrific couple of years. People were looking at him when we signed Van Persie saying: 'Where is his position, where is he going to fit in?' But he showed he is still a major part of it and he was terrific against San Marino.

"We have got so much strength, but he has been terrific. If he keeps performing like that he is only going to get better."

The ex-Tottenham man also highlighted Welbeck's versatility as a key attribute to his game, along with his professional attitude.

"He can create and score goals. He can play different positions, he can play wide, he can play up top – he is a real talent," Carrick added.

"He is modest too, what you’d expect coming through the ranks at United. The manager sets standards for the young lads and Danny doesn’t get carried away and this won’t change him at all.

"He just gets back and starts working hard again and that is what he does best – that is one of his biggest assets."

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