Martin Keown criticised Theo Walcott’s performance against BATE Borisov despite scoring twice.

Walcott scored Arsenal’s first two goals in the 4-2 win over BATE Borisov on Thursday night, but still came in for criticism for his performance.

Martin Keown panned his efforts, claiming that his decision making wasn’t up to standard.

“Bit disappointed a little with Theo Walcott if I’m honest,” Keown said, as reported by The Daily Star.

“Some of the decision making in the final third which Wenger won’t be entirely happy with.”

Walcott wasn’t amazing but was far from disappointing.

Two goals is nothing to be disappointed by, even if they were put on a silver platter by Jack Wilshere and the BATE goalkeeper.

Statistically, his performance was very good.

According to WhoScored, he managed seven shots on the night, hitting the target four times and also hitting the post. He also produced three key passes (a match-high) and completed all four of the dribbles he attempted. Even his delivery from set-pieces was good.

The standard of opposition wasn’t that high, but there wasn’t a great deal wrong with Walcott’s performance, certainly not enough to single him out for criticism after the game.

Walcott hasn’t played many games this season. His only starts have come in the Carabao Cup and the Europa League.

He has three goals to his name, proving he’s a very useful player to have in those competitions, even if he won’t wow anyone with his performances.