Welbeck struck as Brighton won 3-0 on the night.
He remarked afterwards: "We started well, got an early goal which put us in a great position. I think everyone down to a man was brilliant, winning their duels, fighting for the ball, second balls.
"It was a really good performance, really strong. It's good to get three goals and a clean sheet. It's positive, sets us up nicely going into the last few games of the season."
On Van Hecke, Welbeck also said: "JP is an incredible player. Not only is he an incredible centre back he's got the ability to step into midfield, to create things from the back and as you've seen today step into midfield and play decisive passes as well.
"You've got to use the strengths of the players. With the way the manager sets us up, we always have different patterns where players are rotating, players are stepping forward with the ball, there's lots of options to play forward."