Arsenal boss Wenger: Walcott performance should silence snipers

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger was delighted Theo Walcott was on the scoresheet in their 3-1 win over Burnley.

Walcott, who turns 21 later this month, had come under fire following his midweek outing for England, when he was replaced by Shaun Wright-Phillips after a largely ineffectual display.

However, the Arsenal winger produced the goods at the Emirates as his fine second-half finish helped the Gunners close in on the top of the Premier League, moving level with leaders Chelsea, although having played a match more.

Wenger said: "Theo Walcott gave you the great response you waited for.

"He does what a player has to do - not talk in the newspapers and let your performance talk on the pitch.

"He didn't answer any critics other than with a good performance today and that's what you want from a player. That shows he is mentally strong.

"I was quite sure he would respond with a good performance but you never know, it affects you when you get criticised. The way he answered that at his age is remarkable."