Danny Welbeck reached for humour after delivering another damaging performance against Manchester United, joking that anti-doping officials might soon come knocking following Brighton’s cup victory over his former club.
The 35-year-old striker, who once wore United colours at Old Trafford, scored the decisive second goal to seal a landmark win for the Seagulls and continued a remarkable personal streak against the Red Devils.
Welbeck, who has Ghanaian heritage, once again proved a familiar source of pain for United. Born in Manchester to Ghanaian parents, the Brighton forward has built a career defined by resilience and longevity.
The defeat compounded United’s misery, as they crashed out of both domestic cup competitions at the earliest stage for the first time in 44 years.
Losses to Grimsby Town and Brighton have deepened concerns around another season set to end without silverware, while former players continue to return as reminders of opportunities lost.
Welbeck’s goal marked his eighth against United in all competitions and his sixth strike at the stadium he once called home.
Speaking after the match, he brushed aside suggestions of a personal secret behind his form. “I can’t give away my secret. If I say too much, drug testers will come for me!”
“I’m good, I’m clean, I’ve got good genetics, good family,” he added. “My mum and dad blessed me with good genes. A lot of hard work. I work hard every day, I look after myself. I eat well, prepare well for every single training session. I’m feeling good, feeling strong.”
The result was historic for Brighton, who had never previously beaten United in this competition.
Welbeck, who spent 13 years at United before leaving for Arsenal in 2014, also reflected on the influence of interim manager Darren Fletcher during his formative years.
“He helped me massively as a young player at Man Utd. It was nice to see him on the sidelines. I have the utmost respect for Darren Fletcher.”
Brighton will discover their next opponents on Monday night as they look ahead to the fourth round, with potential clashes against Arsenal, Manchester City or Chelsea looming.
