Now approaching his 34th birthday, Danny Welbeck once again underlined his importance to Brighton with the match-winning contribution at St James’ Park.

Over six years on from his 42nd and possibly final England cap, the former Manchester United and Arsenal striker has shown his enduring class during the Seagulls bright start to the campaign.

With five goals in eight top-flight appearances this term he has already equalled his tally for last season and on this evidence you would not back against him reaching double figures for the first time in his career.

Evan Ferguson’s hat-trick against the same opposition catapulted him into the national spotlight last term.

However, with the Republic of Ireland striker enduring a goal drought stretching some 11 months, Brighton will hope the injury that saw Welbeck leave the pitch on a stretcher later on, will not keep him out for an extended period.