This is a big season for Theo Walcott, according to both Arsène
Wenger and the player himself.
The 18-year-old has now made 35 appearances for Arsenal since he
joined Arsenal from Southampton in a fanfare of publicity in
January 2006. That only intensified the following summer when
Walcott was chosen for the England World Cup squad without having
played for his new club.
However the Under-21 winger has yet to command a regular place
under Wenger outside the Carling Cup. When questioned before the
weekend whether Walcott was ready to emerge now, his manager was
supportive and yet cautious.
Frankly I dont know yet, he replied. I could say yes or no.
No because he is long enough in the game to have learned and yes
because he is still young.
He told me he knows its an important year for him.
I studied the team who won the World Cup for France in 1998. They
all started age 18.
If you dont get in the team at 18, 19, 20 doubts start. Hes at
an age now where you expect him to exert his personality and turn
up in big games. OK he will still look young on occasions but as
well it is [time] to show that this guy can be a player.
I think he will.
