In July of 2011, Theo had 16 premiership goals and 15 premiership assists in 114 appearances for Arsenal in the premier league, about 23 starts a season.
He had also signed a new contract in the summer of 2009 and was on 50k a week (if the rumored figure is true).
Granted, the 2010-11 season, Theo had just scored 9 goals for Arsenal in the premeirship and was looking better as a player, but I dont know if I disagree that much with not paying him a that time.
Outside of UGos, most of us thought he was a bit shyt. Im also not convinced Theo would still be here last last summer were it not for Song and RVP leaving.
Its a double-edged sword, and fairplay to Theo he has won it, but I do understand the club's position before last summer. Nothing about his production screams a player that should be earning 5 million a year. The problem is Arsenal have depleted their talent so much that there isnt a choice but to pay dude that much because he is the biggest star we have and the most productive player we have.