Danny Welbeck's phonecall from Sir Alex Ferguson that spoke volumes after FA Cup heroics

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Danny Welbeck once revealed how Sir Alex Ferguson called him following his FA Cup heroics . The former Manchester United forward received a call from his old manager following his role in guiding Brighton to last year's quarter-finals.

It was Welbeck 's extra-time strike that secured victory at Newcastle last season, earning Brighton a place in the FA Cup's last eight. He replicated that success by netting the winner in a 2-1 triumph over his old club at Old Trafford on Sunday.

The 34-year-old broke through United's backline to unleash a ferocious finish into the top corner past Senne Lammens. And whilst Benjamin Sesko maintained his recent scoring streak with a late consolation, Welbeck and Brighton came out on top.

Ferguson, 84, may be less enthusiastic about congratulating his former striker after knocking his cherished United out of the competition. Nevertheless, he has previously demonstrated considerable backing for Welbeck, having handed the forward his senior debut aged just 17.

"After the Newcastle goal, I think he [Ferguson] was away in South Africa, and he rang me and he was talking about the goal and the performance," Welbeck told BBC Sport last year. "It's 'No caller ID' that always rings, and I was just like, 'Hello?'

"Sometimes I don't even answer as I don't know who it's going to be, but it was him and he was just buzzing. To have that connection...he's a manager who was always looking out for his players, always wants the best for them, and still to this day we're still in contact."

The warmth Welbeck feels towards the boss who gave him his chance at such a young age is evident. The 42-times capped England star lifted the League Cup and FIFA Club World Cup during his debut season as a first-team player before being loaned out by United.

For a brief while, Welbeck appeared destined to become United's star striker for years to come. He notched a personal-best tally of 12 goals across 39 matches for United throughout the 2011/12 season, Ferguson's second-to-last campaign at Old Trafford.

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He also secured his sole Premier League title in 2013 as Ferguson himself departed United. Yet despite subsequent moves to Arsenal , Watford and ultimately Brighton, Welbeck's occasional communication with such an influential figure hasn't weakened their bond whatsoever.

The defeat at home to the Seagulls marked the end of United's four-match unbeaten streak. And it may prove to be Darren Fletcher's last match as caretaker manager, with Michael Carrick set to take over as interim boss .

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Welbeck's winning goal serves as another stark reminder of the success that former United players often find after leaving the club. While that's not to suggest that Welbeck would be a better fit for the current side, it's worth noting his nine goals this season surpass any tally from a United player so far this term.