Walcott not bothered by critics

(GSM) – Theo Walcott hopes his outstanding performance against Burnley will silence his critics.

The Arsenal winger was slammed for making little impact in England’s friendly with Egypt last week – with former England winger Chris Waddle claiming the 20-year-old ‘”doesn’t understand the game’.

Walcott’s response came in Saturday’s 3-1 win at the Emirates, with a second-half goal capping a notable performance for the experienced youngster.

“I have had so many injuries this season, people don’t realise how hard it is to come back from setbacks after setbacks after setbacks,” said Walcott.

“You can’t be at your best straight away and if you think you can, then you put more pressure on yourself. That’s what I had been doing this season.

“I heard what has been going on and what he (Waddle) said, but I don’t listen to people on the outside of football.

“I listen to people around me – the boss (Arsene Wenger), Mr Capello, my family and the people around me.

“The best thing is I do know what’s going on on the outside, but I don’t listen to it, I only listen to people around me.

“It’s doesn’t bother me whatsoever – maybe if I keep performing like that it will shut people up.”