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Theo Walcott has voiced concern over Arsenal’s reliance on set-pieces following their 2-0 defeat to Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday evening.
Former Arsenal forward Theo Walcott has voiced his concerns over Arsenal’s over-reliance on set-pieces following their 2-0 defeat to Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg. Goals from Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon sealed the victory for Newcastle, leaving Arsenal with a mountain to climb in the return leg.
Walcott, speaking on Sky Sports’ coverage of the match, highlighted that Arsenal’s focus on set-pieces has come at the expense of their traditional free-flowing football. “What worries me for Arsenal is they are getting excited about set pieces all the time rather than free-flowing football, which they are known for,” Walcott said. He added, “They’re getting away from it, they are shying away from it at this moment in time.”
The former Gunner also pointed out that the team’s lack of confidence was evident during the match. “It was a very lackluster performance in the second half. It’s going away from free-flowing football and creating chances. It is a lack of confidence, I think, I think there were a lot of nerves in the stadium.”
Walcott’s comments come at a time when Arsenal’s attacking struggles have been magnified, with the team managing only three shots on target from 23 attempts. The absence of key player Bukayo Saka, who underwent hamstring surgery last month, has also been cited as a factor behind Arsenal’s lackluster performance.
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