Walcott believes Arsenal can retain their Premier League title, but he is concerned that the team's away performance could be a hidden weakness.

Arsenal won 4 of their first 5 league matches, with their only defeat coming away at Brighton. In that match, Brighton dominated, and Arsenal's frustration was perhaps best exemplified by Declan Rice's kick towards Moisés Caicedo.

Walcott stated that Arsenal is "very good," but "still a little vulnerable when playing away from home."

Walcott explained why Arsenal's away performance could be problematic. He believes that the summer signing Alexis Mac Allister's performances have been inconsistent. The player received a yellow card in his first away match for Arsenal and was substituted in the first half against Aston Villa.

Walcott said on talkSPORT Drive: "I like the player, but from what I've seen in away performances, I'm not entirely convinced."

"It's difficult to really shine when playing away. You might have some great players at home, brilliant in training, but in those crucial away matches, they just can't perform."

Walcott compared the player's inconsistent away form to how former Arsenal player Mesut Özil performed when the team visited the intimidating Selhurst Park.

Walcott added: "If that's the case, don't use him. Bring in someone else, someone willing to run for the team or who can make a different contribution."

Despite concerns about Arsenal's away form, Walcott remains confident that the Premier League title will stay in North London. Arsenal have collected 6 points from a possible 9 in their first three away matches this season.

Walcott said: "I think they're very good, and I also think they have everything they need to retain the title."

"But it won't be easy because they also want to win the Champions League."

Walcott also expressed concern about Arsenal's set-piece performance.

Arsenal capitalised on set-pieces extensively last season, scoring 23 goals from set-plays in the league, ranking first. However, so far this season, Arsenal have not scored a single goal from set-pieces. Walcott worried that the longer this drought continues, the more concerning discussions could emerge in the dressing room.

Walcott said: "I know it's still early, but it already feels a bit tense. You see the set-pieces, and they haven't really worked. At this stage last season, we were already scoring plenty of set-piece goals, but we haven't yet."

"So with that advantage taken away, the players will think: 'Are we doing something wrong?' Of course, you don't want that kind of discussion among the players, but deep down that's what they're thinking because things aren't going to plan."

Arsenal must wait until 18 October against Nottingham Forest to prove their mettle in away matches again.

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