The 17-year old teenage sensation who made his debut for Arsenal in 2006 was destined for great things. 11 years down the line and Theo Walcott is just another bit-part Arsenal player. The once-promising career of the England international never took off and Theo becomes just another England international who was once destined for greatness.
Walcott’s £5m move from Southampton came with great expectation and he made it count in his early days by bursting down the right flank ghosting past defenders. His pace on the ball terrified every full-back and adds to that his knack of finishing off moves with goals he was a nightmare for the opposition manager. He always had the ability to find the back of the net from the tightest angles and his finishing earned him great pomp, so much so that Wenger considered converting the pacey winger into an out-and-out striker.
A career that once promised so much has been blighted by injuries, inconsistent performances and a lack of winning mentality. Theo Walcott is now 28-years old, and far away from featuring for the three Lions. He has been at Arsenal for over 11 years and has failed to nail down a starting spot throughout his spell at the club. Gareth Southagte surely does not consider Walcott for he has better options available and Wenger still chooses to introduce Walcott as an impact sub or a domestic cup match player.
If Walcott still does hold serious ambition to play for England in next year’s World Cup in Russia, he will need regular game time which is unlikely to come at Arsenal. This leaves the former England star with a hard choice to make. He must decide to seek his fortunes elsewhere if he is to feature regularly for a team.
Walcott is said to be open-minded about his future after accepting an Arsenal exit could be best for his career at this stage. The 28-year-old started only on a few occasions with the other few coming as substitute appearances.
The situation with Walcott does not suit Wenger either and according to reports he could be on his way out of the North London club.It is claimed time is running out for Walcott to prove himself, with the Arsenal manager ready to make him available for transfer if there is no upturn in form.
There are several clubs interested in signing the 28-year old. Newspapers across Europe are reporting that clubs in Europe are interested should the player become available. Another major club linked with the player is AC Milan.
Despite a huge takeover in summer and many new signings coming in, the club has failed to perform up to the expected standards and are struggling in the Serie A. Walcott can possibly add a new dimension of direct and fast football if he were to join the Milan side.
One can only hope no matter where he plays, we get to see the best of Theo, the flashy winger who made his defenders chase his shadow.
