'It was fairly close' - Theo Walcott reveals he turned down Liverpool transfer before joining Everton
Former Arsenal and Everton winger Theo Walcott has revealed he rejected the chance to sign for Liverpool nine years ago as it was 'not quite right' at that stage of his career.
The 34-year-old announced his retirement from football last month, rounding off an 18-year career in English football. In that time 12 years were spent with Arsenal, who he signed for from boyhood club Southampton at the age of 16.
Shortly after he became England's youngest ever senior player, going on to forge a bright career in Arsene Wenger's Gunners team as an electric, goalscoring winger. His highest attacking return would be in the 2012/13 campaign, scoring 14 goals and and registering 12 assists as his club beat North London rivals Tottenham to fourth place.
However a ruptured cruciate ligament the following season halted his progress and seemingly had Walcott considering his options.
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Posed the question 'did you ever come close to joining a club we wouldn't know about?' in a Q&A with Sky Sports on Friday, nine years on the former player has revealed how he almost made the switch from the Emirates Stadium to Anfield.
"Liverpool," Walcott answered to presenter Joe Tomlinson, who replied with a shocked one-word response of his own - "Liverpool?"
"Yeah, I remember talking to Liverpool," Walcott continued.
Tomlinson began to probe, attempting to find out any details. He asked: "Because you are a Liverpool fan, aren't you?"
The ex-Arsenal man replied: "I am - I am a Liverpool fan. Or was, I'm more an Arsenal fan technically, and I'm pushing my kids towards Arsenal.
"But yes, Liverpool.
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