Arsenal forward Theo Walcott has
signed a new long-term contract with the Emirates Stadium
outfit.
The 20-year-old England international joined the Gunners from
Southampton in a £5million deal in January 2006 and has now agreed
improved terms with the North London side.
Walcott was gradually eased into the Arsenal first-team fold by
manager Arsene Wenger but is now established as a key performer for
club and country.
Comfortable operating on either flank or in a more central role,
Walcott's prodigious pace makes him a potent threat to opposition
defenders.
"I'm absolutely delighted to have signed a new long-term
contract. I'm so happy here and just want to say thanks to everyone
who has helped me get to this point in my career," he told the
club's official website.
"Together with the belief of my team-mates, the boss and
everyone on the staff, everyone has got behind me here at Arsenal
which is brilliant.
"It's fantastic to work with the best manager in the world and
play at Emirates Stadium, which is an unbelievable place to play
in. I just want to continue playing my football at this club and
look forward to many successful seasons ahead."
Gunners boss Wenger believes that there is still more to come
from the gifted youngster, who bagged a hat-trick for his country
in the memorable World Cup qualifying victory away to Croatia in
September last year.
Wenger said: "We are absolutely delighted that Theo has
committed his long-term future to Arsenal Football Club. Theo is an
intelligent player with amazing ability and speed, and has
developed extremely well this season.
"At still only 20 years of age, Theo has huge potential for the
forthcoming years and we are all looking forward to see him grow
even more in an Arsenal shirt."