Arsene Wenger delighted by Theo Walcott's form
Arsenal’s manager, Arsene Wenger, has long been criticised for persisting with his policy of harnessing young talent instead of buying big names.
Wenger though still sticks to it, and believed that his young squad has the ability to win big things. His strategy though was vindicated to some degree when Arsenal stormed to a 6-0 win over new boys, Blackpool in their 2nd match of the season.
The biggest star of the show was no doubt Theo Walcott. The young striker scored a hat trick and repaid Wenger for the faith he has shown in him. Arsene Wenger was delighted by the youngster’s display and said that Walcott is finally ready to take the next step. He said that Theo used to have nerves when playing in big matches, but now he seems to have shaken if off and would be able to come good when it matters.
Walcott scored his first hat trick in the Premier League on Saturday, and helped his team to a 6-0 win over Blackpool, who have just been promoted to Premier League this season.
The 21-year old was left out of the England World Cup squad by Fabio Capello and many criticised that decision by the Italian. However, Wenger had no complaints as he has his front man fresh from a long summer break and the form he has shown, has added to the manager’s delight. Walcott, since the World Cup has been in Capello’s plans for England team and is believed to be a fixture in the team as England start the qualification campaign for the Euro 2012 Championships.
Wenger said that he could not be happier about Walcott’s display. He added that still he was not surprised because he always knew that Theo had it in him, and said that this is just a building block in a long successful career for his winger. Wenger said that physically, Walcott is a bit weak and he hopes that he stays injury free, as Arsenal youngsters do have a tendency to get bad injuries. Players like Samir Nasri, and Eduardo are prime examples. The French manager said that Walcott has had the ability to run down the wings and create opportunities but to be on the end of moves is what he has learned now.
Wenger said that it is all part of the development of a player; he added that when he signed him from Southampton he did not expect wonders from him straight away. He knew that any young talent needs time to mature and maybe now is the right time for him to come good.
The Arsenal boss said that Walcott has always had the ability to finish, but it was his nerves that always got the better of him. He said that being an inexperienced player does play a part in that, but now that he has been around for a while, even though he is just 21 he should start getting more goals.
Arsene Wenger said that he has always believed that a player that is developed through a proper system can last longer than a player who suddenly becomes a star overnight. Wenger went on to say that often there are players who are tipped to be the next best thing but more times than not they fade away. He said that every player should be given proper time and environment to grow and learn. If that is not available many players can let their talents go to waste. Wenger ended by saying that he will continue to stick to his philosophy and win back the Premier League title.
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