Walcott and Wilshere give Arsenal FA Cup final selection dilemma

Well that went pretty well, isn’t it? Arsenal ended the winless drought emphatically, scored some beautiful goals and Theo Walcott did what he does before signing a new contract, grabbing a hat trick. Here are a few conclusions from the game:

Walcott and Wilshere push cases for selection

Before the game against West Bromwich Albion, Theo Walcott and Jack Wilshere would have been in few fans’ team selections to face Aston Villa in the FA Cup final. However, given the pair’s performance against the Baggies, they surely have given the manager plenty to ponder ahead of the final. I believe that the manager will select the players that are fitter, sharper and most importantly consistent. Playing a lackadaisical West Brom at home on the last day of the season is entirely different to starting a final at Wembley.

Walcott and Wilshere looked sharp but they would still need to show they can produce when it really matters – when all the pressure is on them. Pulis’ side hardly pressed Arsenal, which meant we were able to play with freedom and express themselves. I am not undermining Walcott’s or Wilshere’s performance, but at the same time I wouldn’t start them for a Cup final. Fortunately, that’s for Arsene Wenger to sort out. There is a feeling though that Wenger will go for Ramsey on the right just to give that extra bit of protection to young Bellerin.