Wenger: Walcott belongs at Arsenal

Dec 29, 2012 8:45:00 PM

The England international hit a magnificent hat-trick for the Gunners as they steamrollered Newcastle on Saturday and the Frenchman remains desperate to tie his future to the club

Arsene Wenger insists Theo Walcott “belongs” at Arsenal after the England forward’s hat-trick helped his side to a magnificent 7-3 victory over Newcastle.

The 23-year-old has little over six months left on his current contract and with little sign of a resolution imminent, could become the latest high-profile star to flee Emirates Stadium.

But his manager is adamant the former Southampton starlet maintains a deep affection for the club he joined as a 16 year old back in 2006 and is seeking a swift and amicable resolution.

Wenger told reporters: "He belongs here. I want it resolved with the same intensity. I think he loves the club and the club loves him."

The England international's treble against the Magpies was kick-started by a superb goal that saw him cut in from the left flank and curl an unstoppable shot past Tim Krul, reminiscent of several strikes scored by Gunners legend Thierry Henry - which the Frenchman also picked up on.

Wenger beamed: "That was a Thierry Henry-type goal.

"He has done very well, it typifies what I think he can do. He can play through the middle, he will only get stronger.

"He is a good finisher, he has learned a lot because he is an intelligent player. He will continue to improve."

More to follow...

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