Scrumpy Jack, Chasing Down Theo

Posted by Steve Fales | Posted in English Premier League, World Soccer | Posted: August 3, 2009 at 9:27 am

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Jack Wilshere…well what is there to say really? Well done, I think that is all that should be granted thus far, as he did face teams who are not quite at full strength yet, but still, wow. The thing I was most stunned with about this youngster is that he is an absolute natural. His instincts are second to none, and his flair and creativity are lightyears ahead of his age. I know we aren’t suppposed to put too much pressure on him, but we could have an England captain in this one. I know most of you will say I am getting ahead of myself, and I most assuredly am, and I’m not predicting this to happen in the future, but all I’m saying is that all the traits are there. He is undoubtedly an amazing talent; despite his age, he seems unflappable; and, he clearly is not satisfied with his progress thus far, he wants more. He seems to have a good head on his shoulders, but lets see if the same holds true when he becomes old enough to have a drink next year…

When he gets the ball, the crowd sizzles; the oohs and aahs he generates after his cuts and turns are a testament to how revered this young boy already is by the Arsenal faithful. The one thing that Wenger can be applauded for is that he is not the type to prevent someone playing time because they are too young. For Arsene, it really is the case that if your good enough, your old enough. We should be thankful for that. Therefore, if Jack consistently plays the way he has been, he’ll be a regular first-teamer come Christmas; he’ll have probably bagged some goals too.

While the future is very much ‘wait-and-see’ for Wilshere, Theo Walcott has to step it up this season. I really hope to see Walcott make bigger strides this year in a more central role, otherwise he might just be overtaken by this lad. As you know, TW14 also had heaps of pressure thrown onto him at a young age, and last season we saw him make strides for Arsenal and leaps and bounds for England. Unfortunately for Theo, its been harder for him, with shoulder troubles and as he has not been given adequate time in his natural position. It is quite clear he is not a right-midfielder. His speed and acceleration are unmatched, but its harder for him on the flanks as most of his attacking contributions rely heavily on his crossing and link up play, two things he’s not particularly known for. If he is up front, there will be goals that he will create out of nothing simply due to his pace, which will be exciting to see and reminiscent of another Arsenal #14. I imagine Theo is all too aware that this is his season to stake his claim as a can’t miss starter with the likes of Cesc and Arshavin. Lets hope his shoulder problems are behind him, and that he can turn his Arsenal performance this season into an important role for England next summer.

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