Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler believes Danny Welbeck deserves to be included in England's 2026 World Cup squad.

England head coach Thomas Tuchel will announce his 26-man squad for this summer's tournament on Friday, with Welbeck battling the likes of Ollie Watkins and Dominic Calvert-Lewin for a seat on the plane.

Welbeck has represented England at the 2014 and 2018 editions of the competition, though he did not score in three appearances.

However, he has been in impressive form for Brighton this term, scoring a personal season-best 13 goals in the Premier League.

The Seagulls could potentially still qualify for the Champions League if they beat Manchester United on Sunday, and other results go their way, including Aston Villa finishing in fifth after winning the Europa League.

In his career in English football, against no side has Welbeck scored more goals in all competitions than he has against his former side, United (eight).

It will be his 400th Premier League appearance if he plays in this game, the 46th player to reach this milestone.

Hurzeler was full of praise for his striker and insisted the 35-year-old has done enough to earn a place in the England squad.

"I think it's a sign of his professionalism, of how hard he works, of his daily work ethic, and I'm really happy for Danny for his season," said Hurzeler.

"Let's wait until Friday, when hopefully he will be announced for the England squad. Then I think he gets the rewards he deserves because of his achievements this season, and therefore, hopefully, he can do it another time for us on Sunday.

"He played the most minutes ever in the Premier League [in his career], and therefore it shows that, even when you get older, you still have a chance that you can improve, that you can achieve things."