Age: 25
Nationality: English
Position: Right Wing / Striker
Squad no. 14
Height: 5ft 9
Interesting Fact: Youngest ever player to appear for Southampton’s first-team.
Over the last few years Theo Walcott has proven to be one of Arsenal’s most important players. The pace and width he provides on the attack is crucial, and without his presence as an outlet in the team the Gunners often look lost for ideas when going forward. To date Walcott has played 281 times for the Gunners, scoring 69 goals. Whilst this doesn’t seem sensational on paper, he often pops up with important goals and his finishing has also drastically improved in recent times. Often criticised for a lack of end product earlier in his career, Walcott has also improved his crossing and delivery into the box. Assists and goals are now a regular feature of his game, and on his day he can be one of the most lethal forward players in the Premiership. It remains to be seen whether Walcott will end up in his favoured striker position, but for now the England international needs to simply concentrate on getting back to full fitness and having a full campaign with the Gunners.
How Much Will He Play?
Once he returns to full fitness I’d fully expect him to be reinstated into the side. He is a vital part of the Arsenal forward line and adds an extra dimension to our attacking play. There are many players that will be fighting for the right-wing role, but realistically Theo Walcott has to be in the starting line-up. If he can regain fitness quickly expect him to come back with a bang.
How Well Will He Do?
Walcott’s goals and assists tally has gradually increased with every passing year he has been at the club. Once he has fully recovered from his injury I expect him to do very well and with all the attacking talent the Arsenal side possesses he should have no problems getting on the scoresheet and creating chances. Doubts will always remain over his injury problems, but should he stay fit then he should have a very positive campaign in Arsenal colours.
Read: Report cards for the whole Arsenal squad
Dribbling: 7.5/10
Crossing: 7/10
Heading 5/10
Finishing: 9/10
Speed: 10/10
Strength: 6.5/10
Current Value: £18 million
Potential Value: £25 million
Overall Rating: 8/10