What’s the issue with Theo Walcott? I’ve now seen him start in consecutive games against Tottenham in the Carling Cup and against Birmingham City in the league - and both times he hasn’t impressed.

I admit I am a fan of Theo, but in soul-searching the reason why, I must confess that it's mainly because he is an Englishmen among Arsene Wenger’s Foreign Legion who stands a glimmer of a chance of making a regular appearance in the first team. In the past I have been critical of any bias towards nationality over meritocracy, but the heart still longs to see a local lad succeeding among the best of the best.

When it comes to ability, it's easy to see what drew Walcott to Wenger’s attention – his speed. If the Premier League title was won by sprinters, Walcott would be worth 10 points a season. He was supposed to be the successor to Thierry Henry - himself no slouch - who bagged almost all of his goals with his feet, with many of them coming after leaving opponents for dead.

'To to be taken off against a plodding Birmingham defence is hugely disappointing'


But so far, Walcott hasn’t proven he can succeed at the very top. The present Arsenal first-team, with Robin van Persie, Emmanuel Adebayor and attacking midfielders like Tomas Rosicky and Aleksandr Hleb, are probably the slowest in Wenger’s reign. Even back-up strikers Eduardo and Nicklas Bendtner, and second-tier midfielders Abou Diaby and Denilson will struggle in a race against a tortoise.

Walcott has had two consecutive home games to make an impact and not counting that lucky touch against Tottenham, he hasn’t been spectacular. In fact, he doesn’t look like a man hungry enough.

And to be taken off against a plodding Birmingham defence is hugely disappointing. Walcott is being tutored by arguably the best manager in the country and he has a great opportunity to impress with Emmanuel Eboue out for up to six weeks. Van Persie is also still struggling with injury, Eduardo still finding his feet and Bendtner’s clumsiness still unresolved.

But Walcott is lacking - in passion and a belief that he can make a difference to this Arsenal team. He lacks the confidence that he can carry the team and, most importantly, he lacks determination.

He needs to examine the hunger that drives team-mates like Cesc Fabregas and William Gallas. It’s evident in their eyes, the way they approach the game and how they stand up against opponents. And most of all, it is evident in how they stick to doing the basics and not try the fancy.

Theo…grow up. Don’t let this opportunity pass you by.