Theo Walcott has criticized Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka for losing his individual battle against Everton’s Iliman Ndiaye during Saturday’s frustrating 0-0 draw at the Emirates.
Everton delivered an impressive defensive display to deny Arsenal a crucial victory, denting the Gunners’ Premier League title ambitions as they failed to close the gap on leaders Liverpool, who were also held to a draw against Fulham.
Walcott, analyzing the game on BBC’s Match of the Day, praised Ndiaye for his tireless effort in shutting down Saka.
“Ndiaye started to enjoy defending, which is rare for a winger,” Walcott noted. “He won the battle with Saka. By the 30th minute, he already looked tired after working so hard, but he kept going.”
The former Arsenal and Everton forward also lauded Everton’s overall defensive discipline and work ethic.
“Jordan Pickford highlighted it after the match—they worked hard for each other and doubled up,” Walcott said.
“When Arsenal did get behind them, players like James Tarkowski put their bodies on the line. If Ndiaye wasn’t there to defend, Abdoulaye Doucoure or Idrissa Gueye stepped in. It was a collective effort, allowing players to catch their breath. They limited Arsenal to crosses, and when needed, Pickford made some exceptional saves, even when unsighted.”
Walcott highlighted the same defensive attitude from substitutes Jesper Lindstrøm and Jack Harrison, noting their support for teammates like Ashley Young.
“Wingers worked against wingers,” he added. “When one player was beaten, another was there to cover. That teamwork was the difference.”
While Walcott applauded Everton’s defensive resilience, he pointed to Arsenal’s ongoing struggle to score from open play as a major issue holding them back this season.
The result leaves Mikel Arteta’s side searching for answers as they look to reignite their title challenge, while Everton’s determined performance showcased their growing defensive solidity.