Rooney was a 'massive factor' in Walcott's Everton move
Speaking after his move to Goodison Park was confirmed on Wednesday, Theo Walcott revealed that Wayne Rooney was a "massive factor" in his decision to join Everton.
It was announced on Wednesday that the Arsenal striker had left London for Merseyside, joining the 'Toffees' for £20m after spending nearly 12 years at the club, in which he scored 108 goals in 397 appearances.
Despite his boyhood club Southampton expressing interest in the forward's signature, Walcott revealed that it was his conversations with his England team-mate which played an important role in his decision.
Speaking to 'EvertonTV', the England international said: "I had numerous chats with Wayne and that was one massive factor which really tempted me to come to Everton."
"He told me it was a great place to play football and a club that is on the up. Those are the reasons I came here."
He continued: "This is a club with great history. The fans are brilliant, they are always passionate...and I used to find it very tough playing here."
Walcott will be hoping to make his debut in Saturday's clash against West Brom, in front of those "passionate" fans at Goodison Park.