RETURN OF THE SAINTS FROM EX-GUNNER THEO SEALS

Theo Walcott will join Southampton permanently following his release from Everton.

The ex-Englishman, 32, is among a group of players the Toffees will drop when their contract expires at the end of this month, along with Yannick Bolasie and Josh King.

Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhutl was impressed with Walcott’s contribution following the striker’s loan to St Mary’s in the second half of the season.

Last month, the South Coast club revealed they had agreed in principle to sign Walcott to a two-year contract after leaving Merseyside.

He became the youngest player in Southampton’s first team at 16 years and 143 days, after being a substitute in a 0-0 draw against Wolves.

Walcott won two FA Cup medals with the Gunners and was selected 47 times by England. But he has always regarded Southampton as his football home.

He said: “Southampton are a club that means so much to me, and it has been incredibly special for me to have spent this season at St Mary’s.

“But now having the opportunity to come back for another two years means a lot to me, both personally and professionally.”