The respect Theo Walcott deserves

Walcott rose to relative stardom in 2006 when at just 17 years old when Sven-Goran Erikkson included him in the England World Cup squad. Despite the fact he was yet to play a Premier League minute. He was heavily praised and had played regularly for Southampton in the Championship.

When interviewed Walcott has said since that his inclusion didn’t help his career. He was selected ahead of Darren Bent and Jermain Defoe. Who were both established Premier League scorers at the time.

Walcott never hit the heights that many predicted and that Arsenal fans hoped for. Just like a lot of top young talents that are too heavily in the spotlight at a young age. Most notably Freddie Adu.

Obviously, his career has not been an absolute flop. But, it has been overshadowed by the original hype around his name. Leaving fans always wanting more from him.

Fans wanting more has left a feeling of disappointment and heavy scrutiny towards Walcott. However, I think it is easy to forget how good Theo Walcott has performed for Arsenal. Arsenal fans have been critical of Walcott consistently on social media.

Over the last ten seasons he has been key to the Arsenal side. Despite playing just 859 and 442 minutes in 2013/14 and 2014/15 respectively in the Premier League, due to injury. He has won three FA cups and qualified for the Champions League every season, except 2016/17.

He played the equivalent of 174 full ninety minute matches in the Premier League. With 65 goals and 50 assists. A very solid goal contribution for a winger that never starred in the team.

Walcott also received 47 England caps. And with his recent move to Everton he’ll be hoping to return to form and earn a spot on the plane to Russia. A World Cup year is surely motivation to succeed at Everton.

Everton fans should be happy with the signing of Theo Walcott. Big Sam is hopeful that he can have a large impact this season.

Overall, the English winger performed well at Arsenal. And was their longest serving player with nearly 400 appearances for Arsenal. I think that Walcott deserves more thanks and respect for his Arsenal career.

Obviously, a lot of Arsenal fans share my view. But, I think a lot of them should be more fond of Walcott.

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