Linked-away Everton star finally addresses transfer rumours

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Everton winger Theo Walcott has finally addressed the rumours linking him with a summer exit from Goodison Park.

The 30-year-old – a scorer in the 2-2 draw with Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday – was reported by The Daily Mail last month to be fighting for his future.

Walcott has struggled to live up to expectation following his £20 million move from Arsenal in January 2017 (BBC Sport).

In 54 games for the club so far, he has only managed nine goals and five assists.

The speculation has now been addressed by the player, with Walcott pouring cold water on a potential departure this term.

He said, as quoted by The Liverpool Echo: “You see, this is just rumours! Now, I’m thinking of a nice holiday! I’m looking to get away, yes, but not what you’re thinking!”

TBR’s view

Walcott appears to be staying put then – but he will have to step up his game in 2019/20.

The attacker’s output in terms of goals and assists has been pretty uninspiring, and one has to imagine Marco Silva will seek to buy some new players this summer.

There could be real competition for places next term – Walcott is already behind Bernard and Richarlison in the pecking order, and Ademola Lookman is in there too.