Need to take the pressure off the manager: Theo Walcott

London, March 8: Arsenal star Theo Walcott has admitted that the players must take the responsibility of the heavy defeat they suffered against Bayern Munich in Champions League round of 16.

All leagues special site; Wenger blames referee; Arsenal's worst period: Wright

Bayern Munich 10 goals in two legs in the round of 16 clash as they thrash Arsenal 10-2 on aggregate to reach the quarter-final. [UCL: Round of 16 - Roundup]

After losing the first leg 1-5 away from home, Arsenal hosted Bayern last night for the second leg clash. Theo Walcott raised the Gunners' hopes as he netted the opening goal in the first half.

But Bayern returned to the game in the second half after Robert Lewandowski scored the equaliser from a penalty. The floodgates opened thereafter and the visitors scored 5 goals in total yet again.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger was once again criticised heavily and a section of fans even staged a protest against the French manager.

Speaking to Evening Standard, on Arsenal's performance, Theo Walcott said: "He will take this on himself but us players need to look at ourselves," he told the Standard.

"The manager has been taking a lot of flak in recent weeks and us players have been accepting it, but we can't.

"We need to take the pressure off the manager and that will happen by performances. Players just want to play football for this club and do well for the manager."

The English attacker clearly stated that it is the players' responsibility to take the pressure off their manager by performing better in the upcoming matches.

Arsenal take on Lincoln City in the FA Cup quarter-final on Saturday, March 11.

OneIndia News