Arsenal forward Theo Walcott has stated that his much-awaited return from the treatment room was an emotional one.
The England international, who has been out of action for nine months with a torn anterior cruciate ligament, came off the bench late on in the Gunners' Premier League tie against Burnley on Saturday.
Walcott, who tested Clarets stopper Tom Heaton and almost set up a goal for fellow substitute Lukas Podolski during his cameo, revealed it was "amazing" and "emotional" to be back on the pitch. But the player will be cautious not to push himself too much too soon.
"It's amazing to be back. I know you don't really want to be putting dates in the mind but this date was always in my head that I might get on and have a go. It was quite emotional. Everyone's been very patient with me and they still need to be patient as it's not going to happen overnight. It was such a great feeling," the 25-year-old told the club website.
"I feel very quick, very strong and very powerful. I want to help this team but we need to be patient. I'll be patient and the boss will be as well. I just want to do what I do best and that's just to enjoy playing football."
Meanwhile, Arsene Wenger pointed out that he is unlikely to hand Walcott his first start of the season, when Arsenal host Anderlecht at the Emirates in the Champions League on Tuesday night.
Walcott is still not 100 percent fit, and the French tactician stressed that he is not ready to take a gamble by starting the forward in the midweek tie.
"I have not made that decision yet but would I tell, yes, 100% now? Certainly not. I'm not ruling it out, but I do not want to make a big mistake," Wenger stated.
In other Arsenal news, fringe midfielder Francis Coquelin joined Championship outfit Charlton Athletic on a month-long loan.
