Source: SKY_Sports
Wenger - Walcott not a kid
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger says he does not consider Theo Walcott a youth player anymore.
The 20-year-old winger is set to return for the game against Blackburn on Sunday after a spell out injured with a side strain, and Wenger admitted it is a big season for him.
The Gunners boss, who signed Walcott from Southampton when he was 16, also added that the speedy attacker has what it takes to secure a spot in Fabio Capello's England squad for next year's World Cup.
"I believe that he is not considered anymore like a youth player," Wenger said. "He is considered a senior player, so it is a big season for him as he wants to win.
"Of course the expectation level for him is very high because he plays for England.
"For me the most important thing is playing well for your club, as the national team is a consequence of the quality of your performances with your club.
"I believe it is very simple - great players make their clubs win. So of course it is important."
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Walcott, who has recently signed a new contract at the Emirates Stadium, made the headlines when he was called up to the England squad for the 2006 World Cup by Sven-Goran Eriksson, despite having not played a senior game for Arsenal.
Now he has to compete with Aaron Lennon, David Beckham and Shaun Wright-Phillips for a place on the right wing for the Three Lions, but Wenger is confident he can cut it at the top.
"On that flank there is a lot of competition," he added.
"However, Theo has the potential to do it, that is why we extended his contract.
"But you must take this kind of competition as a possibility to become better and not be in a comfort zone."
