Walcott drops hint over leaving Everton permanently
Everton winger Theo Walcott has spoken of his desire to stay at Southampton ‘long-term’ following his summer loan move to Saint Mary’s.
Walcott re-joined the Saints on loan this summer 14 years after he first left the south coast to join Arsenal and he has now dropped a hint about staying permanently.
Speaking to Southampton’s official website, the 31-year-old said he was enjoying his time at Saint Mary’s and is hoping for a prolonged stay.
He said, “It’s very interesting. I’m really enjoying my short time working with the manager at the moment and hopefully, it can be a long-term thing. It just feels like this is meant to be. It’s hit me now. This club is massive for me”.
Walcott made two appearances for the Toffees this term playing 90 minutes against Salford City in the Carabao Cup and coming off the bench in the 4-2 win over Brighton at Goodison Park.
But Carlo Ancelotti allowed the 31-year-old to leave on loan as the Toffees have plenty of options on the wings and it is unlikely that Walcott would get much game time for his parent club.
James Rodriguez, Bernard, Alex Iwobi, Anthony Gordon and Richarlison can all play out wide and sit ahead of Walcott in the pecking order at Goodison Park.
Richarlison, however, will miss his side’s trip to Newcastle this weekend as he continues to serve his suspension after being sent off against Liverpool in October’s Merseyside derby.
In other Everton news, Nikica Jelavic has spoken about his surprise when he found out he was signing for Everton in 2012.