Age: 26
Appearances (all comps): 21
Goals (all comps): 7
Assists (all comps): 0
Fresh Arsenal Season Rating: 7
Theo Walcott has had a frustrating season at Arsenal, he returned from injury only to find himself sat on the bench for long periods at a time. But, credit to Theo, he didn’t moan or throw a tantrum. He did as the boss asked and took his chances when they came. When Sunday 24th of May 2015 arrived, he hadn’t started a game since March, but on that day, against West Brom, Arsène offered him a place in the starting line up, and Theo soon repaid him.
Walcott netted a hat trick that day, the first goal of which was one of the finest he’s scored in Arsenal colours. Performances such as the one against West Brom are what convinced Arsène Wenger that Walcott deserved to start in the FA Cup final and, once again. He didn’t disappoint.
Up until the 40th minute in the final at Wembley, Arsenal had had a catalogue of chances and failed to find the net. The game was in the balance and in danger of swinging in Aston Villa’s direction, such is the way with Arsenal. But, Walcott’s left-footed volley just before half time beat Shay Given and provided Arsenal with a platform to build on in the second half.
According to reports, Walcott has just signed a 4-year contract extension with the club. Should he stay injury free and reach the heights he did back in the 12/13 season, he will be a real asset to a club moving in the right direction.
Moment of the Season: Walcott’s goal in the FA Cup final provided the breakthrough the team needed, making it arguably the most important of the match. However, if it weren’t for his performances before the final, he wouldn’t have been selected in the starting line-up at all. For that reason, Theo’s moment of the season has to be his hat trick against West Brom.
Current Value: £20,000,000
Potential Value: £30,000,000