A selectively reinforced component (10) comprises a metal body (12) with at least one metal matrix composite insert (14) embedded in a first surface (18) of the metal body (12), with at least one weld bonding an outer surface of the metal matrix composite insert (14) to the metal body (12). The selectively reinforced component (10) is formed by introducing the or each metal matrix composite insert (14) into a recess (16) inthe first surface (18) of the metal body (12), before forming the at least one weld to bond the outer surface of the metal matrix composite insert (14) to an opposing inner peripheral surface of the recess (16).