Chiellini praises Arsenal striker ahead of England clash

Ahead of Italy’s international friendly against England, Azzurri defender Giorgio Chiellini has spoken positively about Arsenal striker Theo Walcott, singling him out as one of his favourite English players.

The England forward has recently returned from a serious knee injury and the Juventus player has stated that his come-back is a good thing for football.

“I have always been a fan of Walcott,” said Chiellini to English newspaper The Sunday People.

“He is a player with rapid pace which can be terrifying for defenders.

“England really felt his absence [during his injury] and it is good for the world of football that Walcott has recovered and is back to his normal level.”

Italy will look to get back to winning ways when they take on England after they drew their last match 2-2 against Bulgaria.

The game will be played at the Juventus Stadium on Tuesday evening.