"The manager has brought in some good additions and we are a bit more of a team, we work harder when we haven't got the ball," Walcott said.
Nasri and Fabregas were the main creative forces in the Arsenal team from 2008-11. Arsenal tried in vain to persuade them to stay, but the players ultimately got their wish. Nasri joined Manchester City for £25 million ($39.3 million), and Fabregas returned to his hometown club Barcelona for £35 million ($55.34 million).
Manager Arsene Wenger reconstructed his team, adding eight new players in the summer. The North London club has recovered from a disastrous start to the season, and now sits fifth in the Premier League standings. The Gunners' new-found spirit has seen them grind out results over weaker opposition — something they struggled to do in recent years.
"We have a lot more clean sheets as well, and having [Thomas] Vermaelen back is very important as he is a massive player for us," Walcott added.
The 22-year-old Walcott has stepped up with six assists in 19 league games. He hopes his play for Arsenal will earn him a spot in England's squad for next summer's European Championships.
