ALMUNIA TOUGHENS WALCOTT

TEO WALCOTT must get nastier if he is to fulfil his huge promise.So says Manuel Almunia, who showed his own mean streak last season to oust Jens Lehmann as Arsenal’s first-choice goalkeeper.
Walcott, 19, has shown only flashes of his potential since joining the Gunners from Southampton as a 16-year-old two-and-a-half years ago.
His England career has been on hold since he was called up for the 2006 World Cup finals well ahead of schedule.
But towards the end of last season Walcott offered some encouraging cameos.
With Alexander Hleb sold to Barcelona, he is likely to be offered more starts.
He needs to have a big season to hold down a regular place for the Gunners and catch the eye of England coach Fabio Capello.
Almunia said: “Theo is ready to take on more responsibility. He has the support from the fans, the club and his team-mates.
“He is one of the best players in the squad. The only thing he has to improve is an aspect of character.“He’s a very lovely guy — maybe too lovely on the pitch.
“I keep saying to him he has to become more nasty. After this he will be one of the best players in the Premier League.”
Over the past two seasons Walcott has made 41 League appearances, many from the bench, and scored just four goals. But Almunia believes he can help guide him.
He added: “In many ways I believe I’m a good example.
“I came from a small club in Spain and when you are young at a club like Arsenal it can be difficult.“But if you use all the facilities on offer and have the determination you would be stupid not to improve.
“Theo knows it’s going to be his season and is ready to give 100 per cent.”
Summer signings Aaron Ramsey, 17, and Samir Nasri, 21, along with Carlos Vela, 19, Denilson, 20, and even 16-year-old Jack Wilshire are all on Arsenal’s senior roster.
And Almunia said: “We have some very young talent. Ramsey is going to be a great player.
“But the league is so hard that we have to give the young players time.”