Walcott pleads for patience

Zagreb hero insists he cannot repeatedly produce fireworks

Last updated: 12th October 2008

Walcott pleads for patience

Walcott: Wants patience

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Theo Walcott has pleaded for patience from England supporters after failing to score in the World Cup qualifying victory over Kazakhstan.

Hopes were high that the 19-year-old would follow up his hat-trick heroics against Croatia in Saturday's game.

But the Arsenal ace failed to replicate his form from Zagreb in the 5-1 win at Wembley, despite lasting until the 79th minute when he was replaced by David Beckham.

He has now warned fans that he will not dazzle every time he pulls on an England shirt, but insists he had 'positives' against Kazakhstan.

Push

"I knew the fans would probably expect me to get another hat-trick, but it's not going to happen every game," he said.

"I just have to work hard and play as well as I can for the team - that is all you can do. Some fans know that. Some fans want you to push on, but I've got plenty of time.

"Sometimes if it's not going for you it's not going to be your day. I take my positives out of the Kazakhstan game and concentrate on Belarus on Wednesday.

"It's been the same old Theo since the Croatia game.

"Nothing has changed at all. I'm just going to train really hard and try to play well - and Mr Capello will pick the team."

Beckham praise

Beckham, who set up a goal for Wayne Rooney after he came on, was full of praise for Walcott, despite the youngster not finding the net.

"Theo has been great and he played well again. You can see what a threat he is every time he gets the ball and runs at players," said Beckham.

"There is no one that can get near him. He deserves to be where he is, and I hope he carries on - because he is an exceptional talent."

Speaking of his goal assist, the former Engalnd captain added: "That's what substitutes are for; sometimes you get the chance to create goals and create more chances. Thankfully I had that chance."