Arsenal: 5 Youngsters That Will Shine This Season

2. Theo Walcott

24 back in March, Theo Walcott is continuing to mature for Arsenal and finished as the club's top scorer last season, netting an impressive 14 Premier League goals as well as 21 in 43 overall outings. Despite enjoying a strong campaign in 2012/13, back in January, the England international faced an uncertain future at the Emirates after turning down a new contract offer last summer, leading to speculation over a January exit. Manchester United were keen on the winger, and there were growing concerns that he would become just the latest in a long line of stars to walk out on the club. Yet Walcott stayed loyal to the Gunners and signed a new deal and since then he hasn't looked back, enjoying his most prolific campaign in front of goal last season. This is down mostly to the former Southampton man emigrating from his position on the wings to the role as the club's central striker, and he has certainly impressed in his new position. Much pressure was placed on Walcott to step up following Robin van Persie's transfer to United and the youngster has certainly lived up to his billing, ensuring the goals continue to flow in the absence of the Dutchman. Now Arsenal's main breadwinner, we only expect Walcott to get better from this point.
Contributor
Contributor

Joseph is an accredited football journalist and has interviewed nearly all of the current 20 Barclay's Premier League managers. He is also a correspondent for Bleacher Report and has written for Caught Offside and Give Me Football.