THEO Walcott’s illustrious playing career was just beginning when Saints were last relegated from the Premier League – he has to help ensure it does not end in the very same way.

Then 16 years old, Walcott’s talent was already being tracked by the likes of Manchester United, who condemned Saints to the Championship on the final day of the 2004-05 season.

He had not played for the first team at this point, though. Having now turned 34 years old last week, Walcott completed a full 90 minutes for the first time since January 2021 on Saturday.

Saints are bottom of the Premier League, albeit just two points adrift of safety, and have 10 games to save their top-flight status – which was restored over a decade ago but long after Walcott’s exit.

Speaking to reporters in the mixed zone outside St Mary’s as a leader in a young Saints group, the Premier League goalscorer – also the first time since 2021 – admitted he might feel the effects later.

“I’m glad I’ve got two weeks off now as I can barely move! There are players in this squad that know the club well and understand what it means to wear this football shirt,” Walcott said.

“They are players you want to follow, and if you see someone like myself at 34 years old running my socks off, you follow. It’s as simple as that. We’re all in it together and we all want to be successful.

“I know what it means. There have been signs of improving massively and players are now realising that when you’re down there, the true characters come out.”

Walcott got on the scoresheet during the 3-3 draw with Tottenham Hotspur – his long-term rivals, after posting 397 appearances for Arsenal following a January 2006 move.

It was a first for him in the league since rejoining Saints on a much-maligned, lucrative two-year permanent deal following a successful loan return. But the strike was not celebrated.

“I didn’t really want to celebrate because I felt we needed to get on with the game and not really worry about any personal accolades,” he insisted.

“I know the moment we’re in but I did think the 3-1 at the time flattered Tottenham. I thought we played quite well but sloppy goals have been a bit of a pattern this year.

“But I feel like they’re learning now, we got together at 3-1 and had a few words and I had the feeling in that moment that we could still get something.

Walcott added: “I feel like with the man in charge now (Ruben Selles) there is a clear identity, players sometimes need clarity and he has shown us that support and belief.

“It shows and the fans were brilliant as well. Even when we conceded they were still behind us and that’s what we need.”

Walcott – who is out of contract in the summer but is still undecided on his next steps, beyond ‘working my socks off’ – has seen a surprising resurgence to one of the first players on the team sheet, in ideal circumstances.

He had started once all season – in Ralph Hasenhuttl’s final match – before Ruben Selles was appointed. Walcott was asked to reflect himself on that journey.

“Someone like me, I need to keep moving. If I don’t keep moving I’ll get stiff, my kids at home keep me young and fresh playing football all the time. That’s what it’s about,” he responded.

“When I’m on that football field I do feel like I’m still a footballer, it’s as simple as that. I haven’t played 90 for ages and I’ll probably feel it but a nice glass of wine will help with that!

“We’ve got the guys behind, the medical teams, they know you and look after you. It’s not just me, but other players. They make sure you get the right training.

“I couldn’t really celebrate my birthday so I’ll probably have a few celebrations now! Turning 34, it’s been a nice week.”