Theo Walcott has cemented the role of Arsenal striker over the past month and that has coincided with a recurring celebration after a win with Per Mertesacker.
The England striker and vice-captain jump up and bump against each others backs on the pitch when the Gunners have collected all three points.
Speaking to Arsenal Player, Mertesacker explained that it shows the faith they have in each other and is an example of the small details which “make this squad special”.
I have no idea how it came about, it is just a small idea and we have just put it into practice, like a good habit. It reminds us always that [games are] hard work, but we enjoy ourselves, we enjoy playing together and we trust each other.
Small details make this squad a special one.
We are looking forward to having some good celebrations after the game.
The former German defender has been pleased with the Walcott’s performances as the central striker. Despite the England international starting in the FA Cup final up front last season, Olivier Giroud began the league campaign against West Ham, Crystal Palace and Liverpool in the position.
But Arsene Wenger has since given Walcott the nod in every league game after that and Mertesacker believes he is growing in the role and can be a major threat for any defence.
It is a different position than what he played on the wing. In the centre he is always one against two, so he needs to find his way and his spaces and the pockets where he can be dangerous. That will always be more in behind [the defence], forcing [the opposition] to go back because they will always be scared, if Theo plays up front, of the space in behind.
So they [both centre backs] would rather drop, and is better for the midfielders when we stretch them.
Walcott currently has four goals and three assists for the Gunners.
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