An England injury crisis has coincided with an impressive run of form at Arsenal, helped by a few training-ground pep talks with Thierry Henry, to offer Walcott the prospect of that long-anticipated run-out at centre forward at Wembley tomorrow night. The French World Cup victor is taking his Uefa coaching badges and is now working with the Arsenal U18’s, which has allowed Walcott to interact with club’s all-time record goal-scorer about improving his game.
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“When I first saw him join the club I thought, “Wow, yeah, this is a big statement”.
“I actually said, ‘do you want me to get stuck into people?’ That was my reaction”, Walcott said. I was tested mentally as well through this injury and not many players would be able to cope with what I’ve dealt with, to be honest. He added: “If I’ve needed to ask him questions, he’s always there”. I think that’s one thing I missed maybe a couple of years ago … Then actually seeing in the flesh what he does – you see a victor there. From that moment we tried to stop them but we didn’t create chances, only a good one from Anthony right before half time.
“With what he did against United and the way he has been answering the call recently – if he can play like that every weekend he has to start”. I think sometimes you see this generation of players – they’re actually scared to go up to coaches and ask something.
The Manchester City stopper does not believe beating Estonia and Lithuania to register 10 wins from 10 games in Group E is an achievement in itself, and is instead focused on chasing glory in France.
“I’ve had quite a few words with him behind the scenes about some of the games I’ve played”, said Walcott, although he would not reveal what Henry’s words of wisdom were because it would alert opponents. “I’ve learned not to be afraid, and Thierry is getting that into their system”.
“He’s got all the attributes to become a great manager”. He’s given me useful advice, but I’ll keep that to myself, otherwise all the defenders will work it out.
The former Southampton striker has scored four goals and has made three assist in nine games in all competitions for Arsene Wenger’s side. “Now I’ve really thought, “I need to step up”. “He wanted me to be more aggressive, in terms of running at players, closing them down, tracking back, being there and in their faces”, the Gunners forward explained.
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However Arsenal’s current first-choice striker has been making the most of his time with his predecessor in the No. 14 shirt.
