THEO WALCOTT has revealed how Arsene Wenger convinced him to join Arsenal.
Walcott joined the Gunners from Southampton in 2006, before making his debut for them as a 17-year-old.
The 35-year-old lifted the lid on the deal that took him to North London amid interest from Liverpool, Chelsea and a late offer from Manchester United.
Speaking on Sky Sports’ Monday Night Football, he said: “There was [options for me]. Chelsea, Liverpool, Man Utd came in with a very late bid which I wasn’t aware of at the time.
“[But] To be honest my mind was already made up as soon as Arsene Wenger got involved.
“I remember going back to his place with David Dein.
“His sofa was a little bit lower than this and his legs were higher than his actual face itself being how tall he was.
“(Laughing) I’ll never forget that image it was very unusual.
“And Thierry Henry of course was a player that I was really inspired to learn from.
“As soon as I had Arsenal involved I just want to go there and play with him.
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“It was my dream to play with someone like ‘that’ and if you ask any kid if they want the opportunity to play with their star they’re going to do it.
“And it was an easy option.”
Walcott had the chance to play with Henry for one season before he departed for Barcelona.
However, having become one of the main figures at the Emirates, Walcott was still at the club when Henry made his return in 2012.
He was substituted off the field moments before Henry’s famous late winner against Sunderland.
Walcott scored 108 goals in 397 games for the Gunners overall.
He eventually left the club in 2018 to join Everton.
After 85 appearances with the Toffees Walcott returned to Southampton, initially on loan in 2020.
The switch was made permanent the following summer, with Walcott starring for the Saints for another two seasons before announcing his retirement.
He also earned 47 caps for the England national team, scoring eight goals.
Arsenal (2006-2018): 397 appearances, 108 goals, 73 assists
Honours: FA Cup x3, Community Shield x2
Southampton (2005-2006 + 2020-21 on loan + 2021-2023): 82 appearances, 10 goals, five assists
Everton (2018-2021): 85 appearances, 11 goals, nine assists
