Theo Walcott Simply Isn't a Striker

Blessed with amazing speed, superb balance, quick and difficult-to-defend against feet, Arsenal and England international Theo Walcott is quickly becoming one of the quickest and most dominant players in Europe.

But, to me, he just isn't a striker.

After excelling in the position at former club Southampton, Theo Walcott has often stated his desire to play as a striker for Arsenal.

But Arsene Wenger, Arsenal's manager, believes that with his lightning speed and feather balance he can be more effective on the wing.

I agree with him.

Arsenal are already blessed with a number of established strikers: Robin van Persie, Emmanuel Adebayor, Carlos Vela, and Eduardo, all stronger and more suited to the position than Walcott.

In addition, with up and coming strikers Vincent van Der Berg and Jay Simpson likely to become top Arsenal strikers, there just no place in the striking position for Theo.

Walcott lacks the natural instinct of a striker. He's also not selfish enough. And his shot lacks the traditional striker's power and swerve.

But on the wing, Walcott flies. His natural speed and tantalizing crosses are a much better fit for him. He has already jumped Emmanuel Eboue and Tomas Rosicky as Arsenal's first choice right winger.

The way he cuts in from the wing during matches plays a huge part in Arsenal's attacks.

There's no doubt his performance and hat-trick for England against Croatia in September was superb. But although his shot selection throughout the match was great, he failed to keep consistency with his shots. It was his runs that were the main reasons behind the three stunning goals he scored.

To me, Walcott simply isn't a striker himself.

But if he stays on the wing he could end up as one of the world's best wingers.