Saturday, April 11, 2009

Theo Walcott keen to stay a Gunner

Walcott has become a key member of Arsene Wenger's side this season, despite missing four months with a shoulder injury, and is also a first-choice pick for England coach Fabio Capello.

"There are so many examples of players who have developed into great players under our manager, Thierry (Henry) for a start, and I want to be one of them."

Walcott announced himself on the international stage with a hat-trick in the 4-1 World Cup qualifying win over Croatia earlier this season but he is hoping to return to under-21 level this summer for the European Championships in Sweden.

"For me, playing for England at any age is an honour," he said. "And while it's ultimately up to the managers to decide, I think I probably will play.

"In my opinion it would be good experience to play in a tournament because I haven't really had that. It's good experience for young players if they can win something as well."

The shoulder injury, suffered while training with England, put the brakes on Walcott's season but he believes the extra gym work that was part of his recovery has made him a better - and faster - player.

"Now my sprinting action is much better," he added. "I'm more balanced when it comes to using my arms. I was a bit of a lightweight before.

"That was part of the problem. I'm more powerful now and much better equipped to deal with the physical demands of the game."

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