Arsene Wenger fears for Theo Walcott's 'damaged mind' after England exposure

ARSENE WENGER fears Roy Hodgson’s disastrous England experiment in Turin has “damaged the mind” of Theo Walcott just at a time he is feeling “exposed” due to lack of playing opportunities.

Theo Walcott Player Profile

The Arsenal player was asked to play tucked in behind Wayne Rooney and Harry Kane for the first 55 minutes of the 1-1 draw with Italy but was a largely anonymous figure who looked lost in the noisy Juventus Stadium.

Wenger admitted the "No10" role was not one he had ever considered for Walcott even in training and will assess his confidence before deciding whether to put his arm around him and give him a pep talk before tomorrow's crunch game against Liverpool at the Emirates.

"Theo's strength is the quality of his movements, he wants to go to get on the end of things," Wenger said. "He's not a guy who provides.

"Being exposed like that people have a harsh judgement on him that is not deserved.

"I am worried about Theo's confidence because he wants to do well. He's sensitive and I'm a bit concerned about the damage it can have on his mind."

Theo WalcottGETTY

Arsene Wenger worries Roy Hodgson's tinkering has unsettled Theo Walcott
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