Walcott – We can improve on first-leg display



Theo Walcott thinks Arsenal will be a different proposition for FC Twente now the Gunners have a competitive run of games under their belt.

Two late goals a fortnight ago have given Arsène Wenger’s side every chance of an 11th straight appearance in the Champions League group stage. But the win in Arnhem was hardly straightforward.

Arsenal were hustled and harried all over the pitch and were reliant on a set-piece to break the deadlock. It was the Club’s first competitive fixture of the season and while Walcott acknowledges the strength shown by Twente, he is hopeful of an improved performance this time out.

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“It was our first game so they were very sharp and it took us by surprise I think,” said Walcott. “It was very difficult to go there. The fans were behind them and they treated it as their cup final. They were very strong in their man-for-man marking.

“We did not play our best but we got a good result. Hopefully we’ll perform better at home.

“The best thing is to think of it as 0-0, keep a clean sheet then we are through. But this club needs to play Champions League football.”