Wenger responds to Theo critics

Arsène Wenger has defended Theo Walcott after the young forward's quiet performance for England in midweek.

The 20-year-old received a somewhat unexpected call-up for his country after limited playing time for his club this season, and it wouldn't be unfair to say that his lack of sharpness really showed.

Former England players Ian Wright and Chris Waddle have expressed their disappointment at the youngster's progress in his time at Arsenal, but Wenger believes the criticism is unfair.

The manager said: "I believe he has not only a football brain but he has a brain. That means he will continue to develop at a very quick pace. Don't worry for him. I believe Theo will be a great football player."

The Frenchman believes Walcott has had the pressure of the spotlight on him for a long time, which can lead to overly critical analysis of the player.

He argued: "I believe for a while maybe people expected too much of Theo and now they are too hard with him.

"He is very young, he will be 21 this year, and he will have a great future. I believe in him because he has a fantastic attitude, he's an intelligent boy and he is highly motivated. These players always improve."

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