Three things we learnt from Arsenal’s FA Cup victory over Southampton

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Walcott grabbed with both hands a rare opportunity to impress

Much of the post-match attention has centred on Welbeck and his phenomenal return to the starting XI, but another forgotten man reminded Wenger of his capabilities. Walcott has made more than 250 appearances for Arsenal in his decade at the North London club, without ever truly establishing himself as a mainstay of the starting XI. After an impressive start to this season, his game-time has become limited, with the cup competitions providing him rare opportunities to shine. Like his England team-mate, Walcott took his chance with aplomb. Debate still rages as to which is the former Southampton starlet’s best position, but here he illustrated his predatory nature. His first two goals were instinctive, close-range strikes where he had found himself in the right position at the right moment. He had more time and space for his third after being played in by Alexis Sanchez, showing composure to find the corner of the net. In all likelihood, Walcott will return to the bench for Arsenal’s next Premier League encounter, but he has done all he can.