“He’s different” - Theo Walcott not in agreement with Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta over use of Ethan Nwaneri

Former Arsenal forward Theo Walcott believes Mikel Arteta should have used Ethan Nwaneri more often during Martin Odegaard's recent absence due to injury. The 17-year-old came off the bench against Nottingham Forest last weekend to score the third goal in a 3-0 win. Interestingly, it was his first goal in the Premier League.

Nwaneri is highly regarded at the Emirates Stadium but has struggled for game time under Mikel Arteta so far. The Englishman has registered four goals from nine appearances for the north London side this season.

However, only two of those were starts, both coming in the EFL Cup. Arteta continues to urge patience with Nwaneri but Walcott is convinced that he deserves to play more regularly.

Speaking to Sky Sports, the former England international was full of praise for the youngster.

"He’s had a lot more experience playing at the highest level [than I did], he’s been around these players consistently that’s why I just wanted to see a little bit more of him when Odegaard was out. He’s different and Arsenal needed something different to get them through that patch without Odegaard. Odegaard is a magician and he’s not far off of it," said Walcott.

Martin Odegaard was sidelined for 12 games due to an ankle sprain this season. The Gunners lost ground in the title race in his absence, falling to defeats against Bournemouth and Newcastle United in the league.

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Will Arsenal reinforce their midfield in 2025?

Ethan Nwaneri

Recent reports have suggested that Arsenal are looking to inject a shot of creativity into their squad by roping in Real Madrid's Arda Guler. The Turkey international has struggled for game time under Carlo Ancelotti this season, starting just four of his 13 appearances.

The north London side are apparently planning to prise the player away from the Santiago Bernabeu. Los Blancos could be open to a temporary move that will help the player play regular football.

However, speaking on talkSPORT's Inside Gooner podcast, former Tottenham Hotspur striker Darren Bent insisted that the Gunners have better players at their disposal.

"Not for me. You want a grade out of five? I’ll say one. He [Guler] won’t fit the squad. I think he’s a very good player, I saw him at the Euros, very talented. But will you swap one bench for another?" said Bent.

He continued:

"At Real Madrid, he’s not getting the opportunities. Coming to Arsenal there are better options, be it out wide or in the No. 10 role. I can’t see that one happening. Good player, but, not for Arsenal, no."

Arda Guler has registered just one assist in 13 appearances for Los Blancos in the ongoing campaign.