Arsenal forward Theo Walcott has set his sights on regaining his place in the England squad in time for the 2018 World Cup.
The 28-year-old has not been included in any of England’s last eight matches after last featuring in their 2-2 draw with Spain in November last year.
Walcott is hoping to use a series of good performances in Arsenal’s Europa League campaign as a springboard to earn further playing time in the Premier League.
Despite being around the England set up since 2006, Walcott has never made a single World Cup appearance but is determined to take advantage of any first team opportunities he gets this season.
“When given the chance, I need to take it,” Walcott told the London Evening Standard. “That is the only chance I have to get back into the England squad.
“It’s down to hard work. I know my qualities, how good I am. I have got so much experience under my belt, there is no reason why I can’t prove people wrong and get back in that squad.”
Walcott has only mustered 47 minutes of playing time spread over three Premier League appearances this season, but has scored two goals and provided one assist in three Europa League games.
In fact, Walcott features in the WhoScored Europa League Team of the Season after earning the Man of the Match award on two occasions (8.11 rating).
