Arsenal forward Theo Walcott has been warned over the security of his place in the England squad by manager Roy Hodgson ahead of the team’s game against Lithuania, CaughtOffside reports.
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The 26-year-old has had a difficult time with injuries in the last year or so, and has not looked on top form since returning to the Gunners’ first-team, finding it hard to claim a regular starting place in Arsene Wenger’s eleven.
Still, Walcott has been a regular feature for England in recent years and has made it into Hodgson’s squad once again, though he has been warned that there are players breathing down his neck to take his place in the team.
“That’s the thing about football, isn’t it? If you’re not careful, there’s always someone behind you waiting to take your place. It’s a dog eat dog world, a bit,” the manager said.
However, it must be said, the competition does not look overwhelmingly frightening for Walcott at the moment. Raheem Sterling is an obvious starter, though not necessarily in the same role as Walcott any more after playing in a variety of positions for Liverpool this season. Andros Townsend, meanwhile, is not a player likely to do enough to get frequent playing time.
Fortunately for Walcott, the lack of competition should see him maintain a decent career for England. Unfortunately for England, this lack of quality competition cannot be too healthy and will mean an inferior team overall.
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