Despite having so many players fighting for places in attack at Arsenal, Danny Welbeck isn’t worried and says competition makes him a better player.
Welbeck was speaking to Arsenal Player after the Gunners’ 3-0 win over Bournemouth that saw him score two goals. He was picked over Alexis Sanchez and Olivier Giroud by manager Arsene Wenger, and isn’t fazed by the level of competition in attack.
“There’s always competition when you’re at a club like Arsenal. There’s always going to be competition, not just with the players here but players worldwide.
“Everyone would love to get the opportunity to play here so there’s always competition and I think that makes it better for you as a player. It makes you want to improve and just keep on doing your best.”
Most people expected the 26-year-old would be dropped to the bench when Alexis returned to the squad given he was the Gunners’ top scorer last season. Lacazette and Olivier Giroud have also been so impressive up front too.
However, the decision was made to keep Sanchez out of the starting lineup for now, and Welbeck took full advantage of his opportunity, scoring two goals and providing an assist.
It can hardly be considered coincidental how often a player will step up their game and put in a top performance when they know that they have someone else waiting to take their place.
It generally seems to drive them on, and this seemed to be the case with the former Manchester United striker on Saturday as he was unlucky not to get a hat-trick. If Alexis, Lacazette, Giroud and Welbeck can all push each other this season, Arsenal will surely benefit.