Theo Walcott has been reflecting on how much has changed for him over the years.

The 28-year-old gave an interview in the recent edition of FourFourTwo’s magazine about his training regimes, recovery methods and what’s required to be a modern day Premier League player.

One of the questions he was asked was about how he’s had to modify his training sessions as he’s gotten older. Walcott explained how he worked on his core strength and focused on recovery to ensure he can play multiple games [Edit – lol, like he needs that].

“I have always done quite a lot of work away from the training ground, so I’m continuing to do all of the right things,” he said.

“I’ve worked with a personal trainer on my core strength, because I’ve always believed that was a weakness of mine.

“I also spend some time in cryotherapy chambers and ice baths, while various stretching exercises help me to recover from training sessions and matches as quickly as possible.

“They definitely help because I very rarely have aching legs afterwards, so I’m capable of playing in a game once every two or three days.”

Another question asked Walcott if players needed a nasty streak to play in the Premier League.

“Yes and no,” he said.

“I’m the type of person will be aggressive when I need to be, and that’s when I play my best football.

“Last season, I tried to pick on Hull City defender Harry Maguire, who is twice my size, so I don’t mind getting stuck in.

“I’ll take my fair share of kicks but always get straight back up again. The opposition hate that.

“I like to use my body more on the pitch these days, because I feel stronger physically and have got a lot of power in my legs.”

Walcott has become more confrontational over the years and isn’t afraid to front-up players who bigger than he is, as he proved last season against Hull’s Harry Maguire.

His aggression found its way into his play, as he took a more proactive role on the pitch and rediscovered his form last season.

It hasn’t been working out for him since. Part of that has been down to Arsenal change of formation.

Walcott believes that players now must be tactically flexible due to the variety of formations used at the top level.

“Around 10-15 years ago everybody in England played in a 4-4-2 formation. 

“However, now there is more variety, which means you’ve got to be able to adapt.

“I have played in quite a few positions since I joined Arsenal, but I think the right wing is where I will feature the most this season.”

Walcott has made nine appearances for Arsenal this season, scoring three goals.