Walcott glad to have a full pre-season

Theo Walcott is hopeful that after a full pre-season, he can finally find fitness and form for Arsenal this year.

The England winger has had a difficult time since signing for the Gunners from Southampton, struggling with injuries and consistency.

The latest blow dealt to Walcott was his omission from England's World Cup squad this summer, but the 21-year-old feels ready to push on and find his best form this season.

He said: "I was obviously really disappointed not to have made it, but now for the first time in a long time, I have been able to have a rest and a proper pre-season.

"I am really excited about the season ahead – we were pleased after winning the Emirates Cup last weekend and it's good to see players like Jack Wilshere coming through and playing so well. It is also exciting to see new players like Marouane Chamakh joining the squad.

"It was an on-off season last season and it's difficult to come back from that - I would just get back and get another injury.

"I was in double figures last season with injuries. Maybe last year I was thinking about it too much and I was being a bit too timid in games because I was thinking about injury. This year I'm just going to get out there and show people what I can do. It's all I can do really."

Walcott went onto say that he had good support from his Arsenal team-mates and manager when he lost his England place.

He added: "When I found out about not making the England squad, the Arsenal players were really supportive. The first player I had a text from was Nicklas Bendtner and the manager was very supportive too."

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