Theo Walcott has received a lot of grief for his performance levels at Everton over the past 12 months.
Despite impressing in his first few months after signing from Arsenal in January 2018, Walcott completely fell off for most Everton fans, failing to shine in almost every appearance he made.
However, the former England international rolled back the years against West Ham this afternoon, cruising around the field with confidence high, creating chances and opportunities for both him and his teammates.
So positive was Walcott’s performance that it was possible the most surprising element of the game, with the former Gunner helping Everton get back to winning ways.
Many fans took to social media to admit their surprise at Walcott’s performance and their admiration for just how influential he proved to be against the Hammers.
Twitter:
A ridiculed team with a manager under pressure
There is no undere… https://t.co/Zcsu8zaI6u (@JoeyRatcliffe)
Twitter: something I am not sure I’ve ever said.. Theo Walcott was impressive today. I really liked his game. #EFCmatchday #efcwhu #EFC (@Leaffan27)
Twitter: dunno if I’m seeing things or not here but Walcott has learned how to play footie (@mikeappo)
Twitter: Also, credit where it’s due. Theo Walcott, tremendous. Can’t remember the last time I saw him play that well. #EVEWHU (@blackdieseluk)
Twitter: Concussion must have reminded Theo Walcott he was a footballer in a past life! Excellent performance today man of t… https://t.co/Cx5M2zuyRI (@TheAlbinoMonkey)
Twitter: Theo Walcott’s best ever game for Everton. (@Iancroll1)
Twitter: Imagine a world where it doesn’t require backs against the wall to get this sort of performance. Silva made some bo… https://t.co/rU4yuhrUvV (@TheRobVera)
Twitter: Who was that in the Theo Walcott mask? (@Reynolds_R)
Twitter: Theo Walcott is playing like a man possessed and Lewis Holtby has scored a goal in England. No I don’t know what year it is either (@FootballJOE)
Read Everton Verdict
If I were to rank the Everton squad from most important player to least important, Walcott would comfortably sat rock bottom before the West Ham game.
However, the wide forward was like a man possessed. I cannot fathom how he performed so well, and he was almost unrecognisable when compared to the Theo we know and loathe.
I’m so up for a Walcott renaissance though. If he can find that level of performance on a consistent basis, he would essentially be like a new signing. Here’s hoping Theo continues to work at that level for the foreseeable future.
