Wenger admits Arsenal have lost a ‘mental and moral leader’
Arsene Wenger has described Theo Walcott in glowing terms after the forward joined Everton.
Walcott was Arsenal’s longest-serving player before leaving for Everton, and Wenger clearly appreciated his efforts.
The pair reportedly fell out after Walcott admitted that Arsenal hadn’t prepared properly before a defeat to Crystal Palace.
However, Wenger isn’t one to hold a grudge. He described Walcott as a ‘mental and moral leader’.
“Personally, I am very attached to Walcott because we have worked together for 12 years,” Wenger told Arsenal’s official website.
“I have a huge respect for him because he was 100 per cent professional.
“We’ve gone through some tough times together and I would like to say, ‘I wish you very well, Theo, and you’re always welcome to come back here’.
“I would like to thank him as well for the great contribution. He was also a mental and moral leader inside the dressing room with absolute integrity, and he’s a big loss on that front as well.”
“Walcott, twisting his way through the defence… he’s brought down isn’t he?! He keeps going… and he’s scored a hat-trick!” pic.twitter.com/Qz8Lj2MLkV
— Arsenal FC (@Arsenal) January 17, 2018