Try to ignore the fact that we have let a five point lead slip to a 6 point deficit in the league. Try to ignore the almost certain loss that we are going to have tomorrow. And even ignore the Merseyside robbing that we got on Tuesday, and focus on the only positive of this week: Theo Walcott.
Hopefully there is some cheer in that, if not anything else just at the moment as an Arsenal fan. So I give you the lowdown on all the quotes of praise coming Theo’s way over the last few days, from Kolo Toure to Sven Goran Eriksson.
“That run was amazing, to take it from his own penalty box to the other one. The pace he has got, I don’t think there is anyone better. He was like Maradona. The competition is obviously big at Arsenal. But I believe Theo is ready to play regularly in the first team.” Sven Goran Eriksson, Former England manager and current Manchester City coach
“He is making a big impact. He has it in the locker to be a great player. That special thing can make the difference. I know patience is not the biggest quality in society but we need to have it. He’s going to be a striker but at the moment he’s a winger - not a midfielder.” Arsene Wenger, Arsenal manager
“I was delighted with the impact that Theo Walcott made on the game - the run he made for Arsenal’s second goal was incredible.”To go past so many players with such speed and balance is one thing, but to have the composure and awareness to pick a pass at the crucial moment showed great skill and maturity. There can be no disputing Walcott’s ability.” Fabio Capello, England Manager
“For a few months now Theo has been on fire. Theo is very quick and is playing some good football. Playing up front alongside him is brilliant.” Emmanuel Adebayor, Arsenal’s leading scorer
“Theo’s run was fantastic, with a great pass at the end, Theo is a good player and is improving every time. I think Theo is going to be one of the best players in England.” Kolo Toure, Arsenal defender
“It was a fabulous game and Theo Walcott, the English kid who came on for Arsenal, gave a stunning performance.” Sir Bobby Robson, former England manager.
“I think there’s been a massive improvement in his play since the Birmingham game and it wouldn’t surprise me if Wenger starts him in the final league games. He just needs a run in the team to build up his confidence and he has certainly shown he has the potential to make a real impact.” Nigel Winterburn, Former Arsenal defender
Now lets hope he starts tommorrows match, because if anyone deserves to start after the last month or so of poor team performances, it is the young Englishman.
