Struggling striker’s goal nets Watford valuable points
LONDON: Watford striker Danny Welbeck will view his goal in yesterday’s 21 Premier League victory over Norwich City as a step in the right direction after an injuryplagued start to life at the club, manager Nigel Pearson said.
Welbeck registered his first league goal for Watford since joining it at the start of the campaign, with a spectacular bicyclekick winner in the second half.
Having struggled with injury at former side Arsenal, Welbeck appeared to be further plagued by concerns at Watford when he injured his hamstring in October.
Pearson said the striker’s hard work to get fully fit had paid off.
‘‘I’m pleased for Danny, but I know him. He’ll see this as a step in the right direction for himself having had a frustrating time with injury.’’
Victory left 17thplaced Watford with 31 points from 34 matches, four points above the relegation zone.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was left frustrated after Eddie Nketiah’s red card late in the 11 home draw with Leicester City.
The Gunners were leading through PierreEmerick Aubameyang’s 20th league goal of the season, but young striker Nketiah was sent off in the 75th minute for a reckless tackle on James Justin shortly after coming on as a substitute.
Jamie Vardy then equalised to leave Arsenal nine points behind fourthplaced Leicester, with four games of the league season remaining.
In the other Premier League game yesterday, Crystal Palace lost 23 at home to Chelsea. —Reuters