Welbeck shapes up for Sweden date

England striker Danny Welbeck has declared himself fully fit ahead of his side’s crunch Euro 2012 game with Sweden on Friday.

With Manchester United team-mate Wayne Rooney suspended for the first two games of Euro 2012, the 21-year-old started up front in the opening game against France on Monday, despite earlier fears that he could miss the tournament after picking up an ankle injury against Manchester City in April.

And when Welbeck went down clutching the same area against Les Bleus, the United front man admitted he feared the worst.

“I was worried because it was the same ankle. But I got up and carried on. It’s fine now,” he told reporters.

He also admitted that his clever finish against Belgium in a pre-tournament friendly gave him added belief that he could score in Poland and Ukraine.

“It gave me a big confidence boost. If it was a tap-in I’d have been happy and obviously it was a friendly, not a competitive match, but it gives you that confidence boost,” Welbeck said.

“Now I can’t wait to get going out here, knowing if I get an opportunity I can stick it away.”

And Welbeck seemed unfazed when questioned about his role in the team as the tournament progresses.

“You’re going to come across the good and the bad but you’ve got to take it in your stride,” he said.

“I’ve been put in a position to lead the line for England.

“It’s not something I’m scared of. I’m relishing the opportunity. Otherwise I wouldn’t be here.”

Welbeck is expected to keep his place in the Three Lions line-up for Friday’s game, but could be replaced when Rooney is again available for selection against Ukraine.