Walcott to Start Against Portsmouth?

By Joel Martin

Theo Walcott had a very good game midweek against Sparta Prague, creating the first goal for Tomas Rosicky in the first ten minutes. His pace is unquestionable, but sometimes he seems to lack in toughness and doesn’t always make the right decision. It looks like he’ll have a chance to prove his critics wrong, however, on Sunday.

Hleb has picked up an illness and is now doubtful for the game, and Eboue is still out with an ankle injury. So, with his two top right wingers sidelined, Wenger may again turn to Walcott on the right wing.

It’s not a bad game for Walcott either. First of all, its at home, and the home crowd gets excited every time he touches the ball. Second of all, he will probably match up against Hermann Hreidarsson, who is a tough aerial left back, but also a clumsy oaf who can hardly run half as fast as Walcott can. Finally, Walcott hopefully can play with a sense of confidence and self-assurance after playing so well and receiving so much praise in the media after his play midweek.

Also out for the Pompey game are Sagna, Gallas, and Lehmann(?), so expect Senderos, Hoyte, and Almunia to play instead. Arsenal cannot afford any early mistakes from the trio, as if Portsmouth get the lead they could prove difficult to break down. Distin, Campbell, and James are three talented, experienced players, and I don’t think there will be many goals. It may take a bit of inspiration from Arsenal’s teenage winger to break Pompey down.