Thierry Henry believes Theo Walcott needs to be given time to develop without the expectation of a nation weighing heavy on his young shoulders.

The highly talented 17-year-old is slowly being given his Premiership head by Arsene Wenger but having already been to a World Cup with England, his every appearance is greeted with intrigue and expectation.

“One thing about Theo for all of us to remember is that he is only 17,” said Henry.

“I know it is not easy for you guys because he is a great prospect for England, but I do think people have to remember he is 17.

“When you are 17 and you go into the World Cup with people thinking you are going to save the country, being out there at 17 years old with all the expectation you are putting on him sometimes, what we need to do is let him mature and get stronger.

“It is not an easy time when you are 17 – trust me, I was there. I was struggling at 17.

“Against Wigan, Theo had a great game. All of the opportunities we had in the first half were coming from Theo.”