Walcott eyes Ronaldo role model

England forward eager to improve final ball

Last updated: 9th September 2008  

Walcott eyes Ronaldo role model

Walcott: Eager to improve

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Theo Walcott knows he needs to follow the role model of Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo if he is to fulfil his potential.

The 19-year-old made his first England start in Saturday's victory over Andorra in World Cup 2010 qualification and he is now hoping to feature in Croatia on Wednesday.

However, Walcott's delivery of a final pass has come in for criticism and, like Ronaldo when he first arrived in England, he is aware he needs to improve.

"Some people are negative about my final ball," said Walcott.

"Sometimes it's not too bad but I am learning and I do practise in training every day. I have had quite a few assists as well.

Problem

"It is like Cristiano Ronaldo, he came to Manchester United in his first year, showed some brilliant tricks and he is 23 and the best player in the world. I am not saying I will be like Ronaldo, I will be myself."

Walcott feels his pace could be a problem for Croatia if England play on the counter-attack, and he puts his recent form down to Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger instructing him to attack his full-back.

"The main thing he (Wenger) told me was to be more aggressive on the pitch, win the ball back and get at defenders and not to have any fear," Walcott added.

"That is the main thing I have taken to my game this year.

"I give the England team a different aspect by getting behind defenders. There are some world-class players who can play right wing but I give them a different option."