Walcott warns title rivals

Teenager backs side to come back stronger next season

By James Dall   Last updated: 4th May 2008

Theo Walcott Arsenal

Walcott: Looking to 2008/09

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Theo Walcott has warned Arsenal's title rivals that Arsene Wenger's side will emerge stronger next season.

The Gunners began the 2007/08 campaign in impressive fashion only to suffer a detrimental drop in form during the latter stages of the term.

But Walcott is adamant that Wenger's men - who take on Everton on Sunday, live on Sky Sports 1 - will learn from their mistakes and come back fighting next season.

"I think we are the best footballing side in the country," he told the Sunday Mirror. "We have made mistakes this season and we'll come back stronger next time.

Transitional

"We have a fantastic team spirit, which is down to players coming through the ranks. I think this has been a transitional season."

Walcott went on to discard condemnation of Gunners skipper William Gallas, insisting that the France international's leadership skills have paid dividends this season.

The 19-year-old said: "William Gallas has been a great captain and the criticism of him has been unfair. There are 11 captains on the pitch but you need someone to lift our heads up.

"William has done that - he introduced huddles at the beginning of the games, which have been a great motivational tool."

Henry reports

Walcott also commented on rumours linking Barcelona's Thierry Henry with a return to Emirates Stadium after the striker endured a disappointing first season in La Liga.

"I think we have blossomed without him this season. Some players have come out of his shadow," Walcott concluded.