Ferguson backs Ghana's chase for Welbeck

Manchester United coach Sir Alex Ferguson is backing Ghana's bid for striker Danny Welbeck to play for the Black Stars insisting the youngster must be allowed to make his choice.

The 17-year-old, who plays for the Red Devils, has been a long-time target of the Ghana football authorities as his parents hail from the West African country.

Even though he came to the attention of the world last week when he scored a 30-yard screamer on his Premier League debut, he was in Ghana plans for January's MTN African Cup of Nations.

Welbeck has represented England's Under-19 side but he is still eligible to play for the Black Stars before he turns 21.

Ferguson, who is from Scotland, guided the player as a child and says Welbeck must be allowed to make his choice.

"His parents are from Ghana so it is not a surprise," said Ferguson.

"It is the boy's choice."

Ferguson joked that he would be happy if Welbeck plays for Scotland.

"I would be surprised if he didn't play for Scotland. That is my big challenge now."

Ferguson is keen to retain day-to-day control of Welbeck's development at this stage of his career, and is likely to combine occasional appearances in the first team with involvement in next Thursday's Youth Cup tie with Chelsea at Old Trafford.

That means the prospect of his being loaned out are slim.