Emotional Theo Walcott announces Southampton exit aged 34 and reveals his future plans

THEO WALCOTT has announced his Southampton exit in an emotional social media post.

The forward began his career with Saints as a 16-year-old before moving to Arsenal.

After a stint at Everton he returned to St Mary's, initially on loan, in October 2020.

Walcott, 34, will now leave his boyhood club for a second time - but does NOT intend to retire.

Ahead of today's Prem dead rubber against Liverpool, he wrote: "Today marks my last appearance in a Saints shirt and I just wanted to say a huge thank you to everyone at @SouthamptonFC it’s a fantastic club with incredible people.

"I am really disappointed for the fans that we weren’t able to stay in the Premier League this season, but I am certain the club will be back there again soon.

"Thanks to all of you for your support right back to my debut aged 16 years old.

"I would like to wish the team and fans every success for the future.

"My aim is to continue playing and I’m looking forward to the next challenge…"

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Walcott became a bit-part player at Southampton this season, starting just 12 Prem games.

He scored two goals this term, in 3-3 draws against former side Arsenal and old foes Tottenham.

The winger made 81 appearances across his two spells at St Mary's, scoring 10 goals.

Walcott earned 47 England caps during his pomp, scoring eight times.

While he spent the bulk of his club career at the Emirates, scoring 108 goals and laying on 80 assists in 397 outings for the Gunners.