Theo Walcott left Everton and returned to Southampton in October, re-joining the Saints on a season-long loan. The 31-year-old struggled for consistency at Goodison Park and wasn’t in Carlo Ancelotti’s plans after we added James Rodriguez to our attack of Richarlison, Bernard, Anthony Gordon and Alex Iwobi, but has he fared any better with Southampton?
Resurgence at St Mary’s
The Athletic say Walcott gave up bonuses to push through his move to Southampton and was very keen to make the switch when he heard of their interest.
After Sofiane Boufal joined SCO Angers on a free transfer in October, the Saints needed a replacement. Walcott’s career began at Southampton and he was available without them breaking the bank, so you can see why they made the gamble.
It appears to have paid off too, as the England international has made two assists in three appearances. Walcott volleyed an effort across the face of goal that was turned in by James Ward-Prowse in their 3-3 draw with Chelsea (October 17) and he cut the ball back for Che Adams to open the scoring in their 2-0 win over Newcastle United (November 6).
As per WhoScored, Walcott has amassed 268 minutes of Premier League football, creating 6 chances, making 2/6 successful dribbles (33%), whipping in four crosses, taking seven shots, winning 2/6 aerial duels (33%), winning five freekicks and averaging a tackle (7) or interception (2) every 30 minutes.
Future at Everton?
It was strange that Everton were happy to loan Walcott out for the season considering his existing deal is up in 2021, but we must have the option to extend his contract by 12 months surely?
Southampton don’t appear to have the option to sign Walcott permanently, so are we really risking losing him for nothing when his deal expires? I’m so confused.
After spending £20m to sign Walcott and agreeing a three-and-a-half-year deal worth more than £100k-per-week, we will want to get some money back when he leaves.
We’d never let him go for free, so might Southampton be obligated to pay a fee as part of the loan deal? Have we actually protected a valuable asset?
In other news, Lewis Gibson’s exit from Everton hasn’t gone to plan