After years and years of Walcott saying he wants to be a striker he finally got to show what he could do.  This is not the first time Walcott has performed when playing up front with his most notable appearance was last year in the FA cup against Spurs.

Walcott has all the important attributes which would allow him to be the striker Arsenal have desired for the last few years. The essential attribute Walcott has is pace which Arsenal have missed over the last few years. It was clear to see yesterday that Arsenal looked much more of a threat with the pace in behind which was supported by the pace of Sanchez and Wilshere going forward.

However, it is not the only attribute which Walcott has because his finishing has also improved year on year. Since 2010 Walcott has scored crucial goals for Arsenal from the right but also up top in his most recent performances.  His goal to game ratio over the last five years are as follows 38 games 13 goals, 46 games 11 goals, 43 games 21 goals, 18 games 6 goals and 19 games 6 goals.

Although, these do not look impressive his last three years have shown real progress. During that 2012-13 season Walcott contributed with 21 goals which would have been closely matched the following two seasons if injuries had not been present.

However, the main weakness Walcott has is his aerial presence. If Walcott could improve this area of his game then maybe Walcott could be the answer up front for Arsenal. This is improving every time he gets a chance alongside his hold up play which is crucial within the system Arsenal play.

If yesterday taught us one thing it is that Arsenal need to get Walcott’s contract sorted out. Walcott showed us once again that his pace is needed in this Arsenal side and that he can get you goals. His future maybe up front or on the right side of attack but it is important Walcott gets his chance as Arsenal looked more dangerous on the attack and if he was to leave then there is one thing for sure he would strengthen Arsenal’s rivals.

If Walcott is not the answer to Arsenal striking problem then it showed that Arsenal need a striker in this mould. It is essential that the striker in this team has pace so Ӧzil can be exploited to his full potential. This is needed as Ӧzil has an excellent final ball and works better with a striker which can run in behind.