So far, we have enjoyed a promising start to life under the leadership of Marco Silva, and the most pleasing aspect has been the creativity that our attacking stars have been granted. Theo Walcott, in particular, has enjoyed a tremendous start to the new campaign.
When Theo Walcott joined the club from Arsenal in January, the 29-year-old made a decent start as a Toffee, but he failed to hit the ground running. A tally of three goals in 14 games, adding on to a total of four goals in 16 appearances for Arsenal during the first half of the season was an underwhelming return for a player who amassed 19 goals in all competitions the season prior.
However, the 29-year-old has seemingly been rejuvenated by Marco Silva. In our opening three league games, the Englishman has contributed towards three goals – scoring two and providing one assist. In fact, he’s averaging a goal every 133 minutes, and he’s been integral to our unbeaten start in England’s top-flight.
Unlike many of our other squad members, Walcott provides tremendous experience and the invaluable know-how of competing for and winning major honours. Therefore, if Walcott can sustain his promising form, it will only be beneficial to the team. He is valued at £18M by transfermarkt.
Given Silva’s progressive and attacking style of play, there will be plenty of opportunities for the likes of Walcott to impose their creative influence. His early season form is reflective of the freedom and the confidence that Marco Silva’s system provides, and as the players grow more familiar with the Portuguese man’s tactics, it’s likely that their creativity will become more apparent.
While Walcott may have passed the pinnacle of his abilities, he has a crucial role to play, and his experience and proficiency could be of tremendous benefit to the team. Here’s hoping he can continue to impress over the course of forthcoming weeks.
What are your thoughts? Let us know!