Don`t build up Walcott hype - Wenger

Arsene Wenger hailed Theo Walcott's vital contribution as Arsenal rescued a late point - but he urged fans to keep their expectations in check.

Walcott made his Premiership debut as a substitute, just weeks after returning from his non-playing role in England's World Cup squad.

The 17-year-old made an instant impact and helped set up Gilberto's late equaliser in the 1-1 draw against Aston Villa. But Wenger said: "There are positives and negatives in being picked by the national team at such a young age. The negatives are that everyone expects such a lot from someone at an age where, if he comes on in the first team, everyone should be happy if he just gives a good pass."

"For him, being `starified` so early, everyone will expect something a little bit special from him every time he comes on. At 17 that's not easy," added Wenger.

"The positive thing is that he's in touch with the top level in the game and that is important to see how players respond and deal with the pressure at an early age.

"That is good because he will learn quickly."

Olof Mellberg had put Villa ahead early in the second half but Walcott supplied the cross for Gilberto to level in the 84th minute.

Wenger said: "It was a tricky situation when he came on. I know a lot is expected from him but I am pleased he was not depressed.

"He had that sharpness that we missed a little bit and straight away he was dangerous on the left flank.

"He was involved in the goal we scored and when he came on his overall performance was very positive."