Theo Walcott has wished Everton and Evertonians good luck after sealing a season-long loan move to Southampton, saying he believes it is a "very exciting" time for the Blues.

Walcott, 31, rejoined the club where he made his name as a teenager on Monday.

However, speaking following the completion of that deal, the 31-year-old praised the work of manager Carlo Ancelotti since arriving at Everton in December last year.

Saturday's 4-2 win over Brighton and Hove Albion, of which Walcott played the final 12 minutes, was the Blues' fourth victory in four games in the Premier League and the seventh straight success of a so far perfect start to the 2020/21 campaign.

It represents the Club's best start to a season since 1894 and Walcott signed off by lauding the impact of three-times Champions League winner Ancelotti and the brand of football being witnessed at Goodison Park.

"I feel it just shows in the short amount of time that the manager has been there, [that] he's been able to put his philosophy into the Club already and bring these players in," said Walcott.

"There's no shying away from it, how well Everton are doing, obviously sitting on top of the league, sitting pretty and playing very attractive football as well so it's very exciting, I feel, for the Evertonians and for the future.

"I want to wish them all the best.

"But now I need to focus on my goals and that's trying to make sure Southampton can climb that table and work really hard but, yes, it's exciting times."

Walcott joined Everton from Arsenal in January 2018 and heads to Southampton having scored 11 goals in 85 appearance for the Blues.

In a tweet, he added: "It’s been some start to the season Everton. We have a great squad and with Mr Ancelotti in charge I’m sure it’s going to be a great campaign! Wishing the fans, players and staff the best of luck…see you soon!"