Steven Gerrard explains why Danny Welbeck may benefit from England squad omission after match-winning goals for Brighton against Liverpool

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Danny Welbeck was the difference as Brighton & Hove Albion defeated Liverpool 2-1 on Saturday. The former Manchester United and Arsenal striker may have starred in the Premier League this season but he has not been included in Thomas Tuchel's most recent England squad. However, some experts believe the 35-year-old should be going to the World Cup this summer after an impressive campaign.

Does Welbeck deserve to be in Tuchel's England squad?

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Steven Gerrard believes Danny Welbeck deserves to be in the running for a place in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for this summer’s FIFA World Cup after his match-winning display in Brighton & Hove Albion’s 2-1 win against Liverpool - but the veteran may benefit from being omitted.

The striker played a leading role as The Seagulls beat the defending Premier League champions, finding the back of the net twice, either side of Milos Kerkez’s finish, to make it 13 goals and one assist in 33 appearances across all competitions this term.

The 35-year-old was left out of Tuchel’s 35-player squad for England’s matches with Uruguay and Japan later this month despite his imperious form.

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And TNT Sports expert Gerrard says that the former Manchester United and Arsenal striker deserves to be in the conversation.

”There are a lot of quality players in the country who are also doing well,” Gerrard said.

”I think he definitely deserves to be in the conversation. Of course he does. But I am sure Thomas Tuchel is taking age and form over a longer period of time into consideration.

Highlights: Welbeck at the double as Brighton down Liverpool

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”I think it suits Danny not to be in the England squad and I do not mean that from a performance point of view. When you get to that age, you see the international breaks, you can go away, you can rest, you can switch off physically and mentally.

”That can help him to play in more games from a Brighton perspective, keep his form high, keep scoring goals and enjoy his career.

”There are a lot more youthful players who are at a better age who are scoring as well and deserve the chance as much as Danny. On performances like today, of course, he deserves to be in the conversation.”

Harry Kane, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, and Dominic Solanke were the only out-and-out strikers selected in Tuchel’s squad this week.

Euro 2024 hero Ollie Watkins was left out of the squad after a difficult campaign with Aston Villa, but there is still time for him and Welbeck to earn a call-up.

Welbeck grabs second as Brighton retake lead against Liverpool

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Fabian Hurzeler believes compatriot Tuchel will make the correct call, adding that Welbeck could have a positive impact on morale in Canada, the USA and Mexico this summer.

”I think England has a really good German coach and he will make the right decision,” the Brighton head coach said.

”I can only say how important Danny Welbeck is in creating group togetherness, which can be crucial for the World Cup as well.

”Not only scoring goals, even though he is in brilliant shape, but also as a team-mate finding good connections and togetherness.

”He’s so valuable on and off the pitch, and I think he can help any team in the world, even England.”

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