Despite the Gunners making a fine start to the season, the winger acknowledges the void left by the Dutchman - and wishes him luck with his new career at Manchester United

Arsenal forward Theo Walcott has admitted that he misses playing alongside Robin van Persie.

The winger enjoyed his most productive season to date alongside the Netherlands international during the last campaign, including assisting eight of Van Persie’s 37 goals.

Despite Arsenal’s stuttering start to the season in front of goal, they seem to have found their goal-scoring edge after notching six times in their last two home fixtures alone - but 23-year-old admits that the he misses playing with his former captain since the £24 million move to Manchester United during the summer.



“I do miss him but you've just got to get on with it and wish him all the best,” Walcott told reporters.



“You always miss your best players and he’s a great man and great professional.



“I wish him good luck at Manchester United. He’s always looked after me and always backed me up.”

Walcott’s own future at Arsenal is now up for debate, with the winger – who has admitted his desire to play more centrally – refusing the club’s first offer of a new contract, with just nine month remaining on his current deal.