Wenger’s trust in Theo’s thrust

THE REASON for Theo Walcott’s retarded progress at Arsenal has been a question that has remained stubbornly elusive during his four years at the club.

Arsene Wenger has stuck firmly to his belief that the 20-year-old is progressing just as he would wish, but the critics have started to come out and ask when, and if, the winger’s potential will be fully realised.

As Arsenal continued their pursuit of Manchester United and Chelsea at the top of the Premier League by beating Burnley on Saturday, both arguments were manifestly evident at the Emirates Stadium. In the first-half, Walcott regularly sped past Danny Fox, Burnley’s left-back, before firing in aimless crosses.