Walcott made his name as England's 23rd man at World Cup 2006. He finally started to show what he could do in 2007/08, scoring seven goals
The ‘promising teenager’ came of age in the 2007-08 season, enjoying a regular run of games in the second half of the campaign.
While being groomed for an eventual central striking role, the England U21 star continues to be utilised largely as a winger by Arsene Wenger, where his improved delivery contributed to Emmanuel Adebayor’s impressive goals-tally in 2007-08.
Having begun at Southampton before his £5m move to North London in 2006, and survived the furore surrounding his call-up as a 17-year-old to England’s 2006 World Cup squad, Walcott is looking forward to justifying all the hype.
His lung-busting run at Anfield was Walcott at his best – quick, confident and direct. More of the same will be expected next season.