Welbeck looking to build on France draw

13 June 2012 13:48

England forward Danny Welbeck is aware the team need to build on their draw with France as they prepare for their next Euro 2012 group match against Sweden.

Roy Hodgson's men began their campaign in Ukraine with a 1-1 result against the fancied French, while Sweden were beaten 2-1 by the hosts. The Scandinavians have throughout the years proven to be something of a bogey team for England, but Welbeck is hopeful of an improved performance.

"I think the France game, as a start for us, we set out our platform," the Manchester United player told a press conference in Krakow. "We really want to build on that from now on. I think we can improve a lot more."

He added: "Looking at it from a neutral point of view it will be a fine game to watch. Once the game is opened up, there will be a few goalscoring opportunities carved out."

Welbeck, who is making his debut in a tournament finals, is hoping the heat will not be too much of a factor in Kiev on Friday night.

Warm temperatures and high humidity have had an impact on players so far, but Welbeck is hoping a later kick-off will work in their favour.

"The heat is going to take something out of you," he said. "The second half (against France) was a bit cooler, and our second and third games are at a later time so that will be a bit better for us.

"We have a great medical team telling us to keep hydrated, drinking at all times and we've had good advice all the way throughout the tournament."

Welbeck is also looking forward to welcoming United team-mate Wayne Rooney back to the side for the final group game against Ukraine next week.

Rooney will serve the second of a two-match ban against the Swedes, and Welbeck said: "We all know the passion Wayne has for football. He's itching to get out on the pitch. It will be better for us once his suspension is done and he can come in and play for us against Ukraine."

Source: PA