Former Manchester United defender Gary Neville has expressed his admiration for Brighton & Hove Albion striker Danny Welbeck, ahead of United’s trip to the South Coast this weekend.

Welbeck, a former United player, scored and provided an assist in Brighton’s 3-0 win over Everton on Saturday, and Neville was impressed by his performance. Speaking on his podcast, Neville said: “I was delighted for him, because I always am. I think he’s a fantastic player, I really do, I think he’s had a great career.”

Neville has always been a fan of Welbeck, who spent his formative years in the United academy and broke into the first-team picture under Sir Alex Ferguson and David Moyes. Welbeck scored 29 goals in 142 games for United before leaving for Arsenal in 2014.

Despite struggling with injuries earlier in his career, Welbeck has shed his “injury-prone” tag and has been in good form for Brighton. Neville’s praise for Welbeck comes ahead of United’s trip to Brighton, where Welbeck is likely to lead the line for the Seagulls.

United will be looking to inflict the first Premier League defeat on Brighton’s new manager, Fabian Hurzeler, and Welbeck’s form will be a key factor in the game. Neville’s admiration for Welbeck is clear, and he will be hoping that United can keep him quiet on Saturday.