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Team News: Wilshere Out + Wenger Offers Update On Walcott
Arsene Wenger has given a team news and injury update ahead of Saturday’s trip to Sunderland.
The boss confirmed that Jack Wilshere will miss the game through suspension after picking up his fifth booking of the season last week against Hull.
Reports on Thursday night suggested that Theo Walcott was set to return to the squad for the first time in over 10 months after recovering from his knee injury.
However, Arsene has cast doubt over Theo’s inclusion after telling reporters at his press conference this morning that he feels the attacker needs more time to get used to being kicked.
The boss initially suggested he hadn’t made a final decision but later confirmed that Theo won’t be involved against Sunderland but should be back next week for the visit of Burnley.
It will obviously be great to have Walcott back next week and we certainly shouldn’t rush his return, but I was looking forward to seeing him in action against Sunderland as we were extremely narrow against Anderlecht and Theo’s pace out wide would have given us a new dimension in attack.
But we’ve waited over 10 months, so what’s another week? Here’s what Arsene had to say this morning:
At Colney. Wenger: “We have to check a few players but Jack Wilshere is suspended. I’m not sure about involving Theo. Certainly next week.”
— James Olley (@JamesOlley) October 24, 2014
Boss on @theowalcott: “He has to get used to contact again. It takes time to get used to being kicked again” #SFCvAFC pic.twitter.com/eLMGmYuZBz
— Arsenal FC (@Arsenal) October 24, 2014
Arsene Wenger confirms @theowalcott won’t be involved v Sunderland. Koscielny expected back after next international break. @SkySportsNewsHQ
— Andy Burton (@imandyburton) October 24, 2014