Walcott tips Van Persie for accolade

Theo Walcott says the performances of Robin van Persie have made him the only genuine candidate for the PFA Player of the Year award.

With Van Persie netting 38 goals so far this season, Walcott feels there is nobody in the English Premier League who can compare to his in-form Arsenal team-mate.

Walcott spoke of Van Persie’s efficiency in front of goal and said other players, including Manchester United’s Wayne Rooney, have failed to match the Dutchman in 2011/12.

“He is a great man, a great captain and is very important to this club,” Walcott said.

“You just give him anything and he will just put it away – left foot, right foot, and he has scored a couple of headers as well.”

“He makes it look easy and it is not. I think Wayne Rooney is 10 goals or so behind him and he has had a fantastic season as well. It just shows you how good this man is.”

Walcott expressed his delight to see Van Persie enjoying an extended run in the side after being frequently sidelined by injury in recent seasons.

“Everything is going his way and that is great to see,” Walcott said.

“The most important thing is that he is injury free and it is great to see him when he is not injured at all.”

“When I was on the treatment bed alongside him it was such a shame to see so much talent wasted.”

“He has made up for lost time, I am sure of that, and it is massive. Without a doubt he has to be player of the year.”