Arsenal winger Theo Walcott did not have Per Mertesacker by his side in their FA Cup third round tie against Sunderland, but he still managed to pull out his celebratory bump. Walcott made up for the absence of his usual partner by inviting an enthusiastic fan on the pitch and did his signature celebratory bump. Arsenal came from behind to win the tie 3-1 and sealed a place in the next round.
No Per? No problem - Theo finds a fan for his celebratory bump.
Posted by Arsenal on Saturday, January 9, 2016
Earlier this week, Walcott had posted a picture of the signature move with teammate Mertesacker on his Instagram profile. After the game, Walcott spotted a young fan and called out for him beyond the stewards, he gave him a few instructions and sent him flying in the celebration process as seen in the video. The 26-year-old also gave the teenager his shirt and waved him off the pitch.
This gesture after their progress in the cup is sure to cement Walcott’s identity as the fan favourite at the club. The Englishman also had a decent game and provided the assist for Joel Campbell’s equaliser after Jeremain Lens had put Sunderland infront in the 17th minute.
Arsenal have won the FA Cup 12 times, more than any other side and six of them have been under Arsene Wenger. A success this year, for a third consecutive season, would make Wenger the most successful manager in the history of the competition with seven titles. The Frenchman underlined his intentions on the FA Cup by naming a strong side and eventually ran out winners.
Arsenal travel to Liverpool in the Premier League on Wednesday hoping for a result that can cement their place at the top of the table.