Laurent Koscielny: Injury to Theo Walcott was a shock to Arsenal

Olivier Giroud and Laurent Koscielny celebrate with Theo Walcott

Laurent Koscielny has admitted Arsenal players were disappointed that Theo Walcott was ruled out for the season and they were gutted that his World Cup dreams lay in tatters.

Walcott tore his knee ligaments in Arsenal’s FA Cup victory over Tottenham Hotspur in January after a fine run of form, ruling him out for the remainder of the campaign and wrecking his hopes of representing England in Brazil this summer.

Koscielny claims the players were all ‘shocked by the news that he would no longer be a part of their title challenge and admits it was a blow, but believes Walcott will come back a stronger character for his adversity.

The French centre back told the club’s official website, “It was a shock.

“It’s tough for us as he’s an important player for the team, and for him it’s tough as he will miss the World Cup and the end of the season with us.

“He will come back stronger though. He knows that we are all behind him, that we will always be there if he needs us.

“We will support him like we support Pat Rice (currently battling cancer). He will have to stay positive and we have to help him stay positive.”

Theo Walcott had managed to complete just nine take-ons in his 13 appearances for Arsenal prior to injury, having been successful in 30% of his attempts.