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Theo Walcott has spoken about his blistering form in the past month, crediting team-mate Alexis Sanchez and Arsenal legend Thierry Henry as the catalyst to his talents in front of goal.
The England international has netted four goals in his last seven matches, whilst he also contributed two assists during Arsenal’s 3-0 mauling of Manchester United at the weekend.
Walcott has made the forward role his own, dislodging Olivier Giroud from the position, and is told The Daily Mirror that conversations with Arsenal’s all-time leading goalscorer and helped him become a star.
“Having Thierry at the club now, I have been chatting to him on a personal level behind the scenes to learn things from him. He’s with the under-18s and, at times, I think some of them don’t even know who he is! I’ve had quite a few words with him about some of the games I’ve played.”
“He has just given me his analysis on myself and, if I’ve needed to ask him some questions about it, he’s always there. That’s what coaches are there for. I think, sometimes, you see this generation of players, they’re actually scared to go up to coaches and ask something.”
Henry is now back in England after ending his playing career in the United States and regularly coaches at Arsenal alongside his punditry work with Sky Sports.
Walcott then went on to reveal the inspiration Alexis Sanchez has provided him with, after the Chilean smashed in six goals in three games last week.
“When I first saw Alexis Sanchez join the club, I thought, ‘Wow, yeah, this is a big statement’. Then, actually seeing in the flesh what he does – you see a winner there.”
“He wants to win and he wants to achieve things. And, with that work-rate, if he can do it, then why can’t I do it? Maybe that was missing a few years ago. Now, I’ve really thought, ‘I need to step up’ and players like that help.”
Currently on international duty, Walcott could lead the line for England this weekend in the absence of Wayne Rooney due to injury. He will then return to Arsenal for a crucial month, which includes a crunch-tie with Bayern Munich.
