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Theo - Why I work well with Ozil

Theo Walcott and Mesut Ozil
Theo Walcott and Mesut Ozil

Theo Walcott says he is relishing playing alongside Mesut Ozil.

The Arsenal duo were on target in Sunday’s FA Cup win at Brighton & Hove Albion - only the fifth time they have featured in the same team.

However, despite the new combination Walcott believes the two already have a solid understanding of each other on the pitch.

"We managed to bond very well on the pitch because he likes runners, he likes people going in behind"

“I’m relishing playing alongside him,” the England forward said. “We managed to bond very well on the pitch because he likes runners, he likes people going in behind, which gives him time to turn and then look for a pass.

“The runs also attract other players, so it gives him and other players more time on the ball. I’ve enjoyed working with him back in training. He’s just come back from his knee injury and with Alexis in the team as well, it’s a whole different ball game.”

Walcott will be hoping they can replicate their good form on Sunday when Arsenal host Aston Villa, who he made his Gunners debut against in 2006.

“It was the first game at the Emirates as well,” he added. “I came off the bench with 20 minutes left so I have fond memories of that game.

“I’ve always enjoyed playing against Aston Villa. They’ve got a lot of energy in their team and I like the way they play football. They are fairly strong at the back but with the attacking threat we’ve got, we can score goals and I’m sure we will.”