(Source: ESPN)
Extremely heartbreaking news for the Gunners.
Walcott has just returned from an injury layoff in December and his come-back has been impressive - scoring a few important goals and noting down a couple of assists. In his last game against Spurs, although Walcott’s name did not appear on the scoreboard, his overall contribution was telling and looked really like a matured, dangerous forward whom displayed the potential and class Wenger splashed so much cash on and devoted so much patience to.
I saw how much Arsenal’s game needed someone like Walcott in our recent loss to rivals Man U – pacy, direct running and skillful finishing. Man U was playing a tight midfield, crowding the final third and breaking up the flow of our midfield short passing. Man U’s formation resulted in a narrow midfield but alas, we missed the likes of Walcott, Alex Chamberlain and Poldoski who could provide natural width and whip in dangerous crosses.
When Walcott returned and was back to fitness, Arsenal’s game also improved, hitting quick on the counter and scoring good goals. Having a stealth forward in our line-up also led to opponent teams being more cautious at committing players to supporting attack, and overall the string of results proved Walcott’s importance – consecutive wins, a few clean sheets and the latest derby result further iterating ‘mind the gap’.
Never really thought Walcott was a good player (refer to hate post
here), but in recent months he is really proving his worth. Six months out is an immensely long time for a professional soccer player, here’s wishing him quick recovery.
To Arsene, this piece of bad news is a sign from above. No doubt it is a wet blanket to our title hopes, but let’s be optimistic that the transfer window has just opened. Please strengthen the attack line!
