Theo Walcott

Coauthored by Seth Johnson and Stephen Kirchner

Obtained from Google search “Theo Walcott,” labeled for noncommercial reuse

Height: 176 cm

Weight: 68 kg

Senior Experience: 2005-present

Caps: 43

Club: Arsenal (English Premier League)

Season Statistics: 5 Goals; 2 Assists; 10 Tackles

Role and Projected Tournament Outlook:

With Wayne Rooney’s age being questioned in the front third, Hodgson may be pressed to find a replacement from his bench coming into France this summer. Theo Walcott could be that replacement after scoring three goals in four appearances during the qualifying phase (UEFA, 2016). If Hodgson decides not to opt for the 4-4-2 and sticks with a 4-4-3 or 4-2-3-1, it is also possible that Walcott could be put into the starting lineup over one of the projected midfielders to flank Rooney on the wing with his pace, versatility and movement (McNulty, “Euro,” 2015). Otherwise, his pace makes him a good option off the bench to bolster his clinical work in front of the goal.

Despite success on the international stage, Walcott’s career has been a microcosm of the English narrative since joining the national squad. In 2010, the Arsenal striker was known for his blistering pace, received comparisons to Thierry Henry and was described by Lionel Messi as “one of the most dangerous players I have ever played against” (ESPN Staff, 2010). Unfortunately for Walcott and England, he has not developed as well as expected as his career has progressed, being unable to shoulder the burden of such high expectations—much like the national squad itself. This season, Walcott has scored just five goals in the English Premier League and has been on the bench for Arsenal (Karen, 2016), suggesting that his hopes of making the starting XI are slim. Instead, if Hodgson opts for Walcott, expect it to come in the form of a substitution.

How to cite this article: “Theo Walcott” Written by Seth Johnson and Stephen Kirchner (2016), European Cup 2016 Guide, Soccer Politics Blog, Duke University, http://sites.duke.edu/wcwp/tournament-guides/european-cup-2016-guide/english-national-team/key-substitutes/theo-walcott/ (accessed on (date)).