Theo Walcott isn't sugar-coating it. Bukayo Saka has had an "indifferent season" by his own sky-high standards. But the Arsenal legend still believes the 24-year-old will come good when it matters most.
Saka has managed just nine goals across all competitions so far this term. He was even hauled off after an hour during Arsenal's Champions League clash with Bayer Leverkusen on Wednesday. Interestingly, his replacement Noni Madueke won a late penalty that bailed the Gunners out of trouble.
Despite the numbers looking a bit thin, Walcott reckons Saka is hitting form at exactly the right time. "You'd like to think the most important players shine when it really matters," Walcott explained. "We also forget how young he still is and how much he's achieved already."
The former England winger pointed out that Saka has dealt with plenty off the pitch too, including England duties and the pressure that comes with being a national team regular. But he's confident the £300,000-a-week star will justify that bumper new contract.
Madueke Competition Pushing Saka
Walcott believes the emergence of Madueke has actually been good for Saka. "Madueke has actually helped with that, I think he's pushing Bukayo and he's needed that," he said. Competition for places often brings out the best in top players, and Arsenal fans will hope that's exactly what happens down the stretch.
For those looking at Arsenal's title chances, Saka's form could be crucial. The Gunners are still fighting on multiple fronts, and their star winger finding his best form could make all the difference in the run-in.
Arteta Could Surpass Wenger Legend
Walcott, who bagged 108 goals in 397 Arsenal appearances, made a bold claim about current boss Mikel Arteta. If Arsenal somehow pull off the quadruple this season, Walcott believes Arteta could match even Arsene Wenger's legendary status.
"If this team wins the Quadruple, I would start looking at Arteta as 'Arsenal,' and I used to always think of Wenger as Arsenal," Walcott revealed. That's massive praise considering Wenger's 22-year reign in north London.
Walcott even suggested the current squad depth is better than the famous Invincibles team. "I'd say the current squad, as in the whole squad, is better than the Invincibles," he admitted. Though he was quick to add that nothing can quite match going an entire season unbeaten.
The retired forward is keeping busy himself. He'll lace up his boots for the England XI at Soccer Aid on May 31st at the London Stadium. The charity match has already raised £121 million for UNICEF, and this year's edition promises another entertaining spectacle.
