Arsene Wenger has revealed that Theo Walcott could finally get a start for the Gunners in the final league game of the season.

Since his return from knee injury in November, Walcott made two substitute appearances (22 minutes total) before picking up a groin problem that ruled him out for another month. Since then he has been handed three starts, all in games at home (v Villa, v Leicester, v West Ham). He has played a total of 613 minutes (just under seven full games).

But speaking before the game against the Black Cats, Wenger told the press “Some players are a bit jaded. We need to try to keep a balance without losing unity on the tactical side.

“Jack Wilshere and Theo Walcott are very close to their best now.

“I was tempted to start Theo and he will play an important part and on Sunday.”

Wenger has insisted that it is simply down to his fitness levels but here at Cannon Towers we aren’t quite convinced. Not sure if it has something to do with showing him his place amidst contract negotiations or the fact that he can be found wanting when it comes to the defensive side of the game, we’re more inclined to believe one of those two reasons are behind it rather than his fitness.

Conspiracies are more fun right?

Regardless, Walcott showed dramatic improvement in his form when he came on as a second half sub against Sunderland on Wednesday night and looked like our most likely outlet for a goal.

Sadly for him, and the Arsenal, he could not find a breakthrough either.