'I'll play anywhere for England', says in-form Theo Walcott

Wednesday 07 Oct 2015
Theo Walcott spoke to the press at St. George's Park

Theo Walcott says he will play anywhere for England and is eager to take his Arsenal form onto the international stage. 

The 26-year-old has hit four goals in his last seven games for the Gunners, and netted twice in England’s 6-0 defeat of San Marino last month. 

With qualification for Euro 2016 assured, Walcott is keen for another chance when the Three Lions face Estonia at Wembley Stadium on Friday.

England v Estonia

UEFA Euro 2016 Qualifier
7.45pm, Friday 9 October 2015
Wembley Stadium connected by EE
Buy tickets here

"I’ll play anywhere for England," he said.

"Everyone would like to see me up front, but if it’s on the right or the left, I can play in any of those positions.

"I’m excited to be away with England, I feel good. And when players feel good it’s a great opportunity to give them a chance."

And having struggled with injury over the last couple of years, which meant he missed the World Cup in Brazil, he says he is now feeling as good as ever.

"Injuries are always going to be frustrating but you have to take the positives out of it. I think I’ve come back a better and stronger player. 

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"I was tested mentally as well during this injury and not many players would have been able to cope with what I dealt with.

"I’m ready, I want to take off now, it is where I want to be. The next stage is to bring my Arsenal form into England.”

Walcott is one of manager Roy Hodgson’s seasoned campaigners, having first burst onto the scene nine years ago when he climbed off the bench to become England’s youngest ever player at 17 years 75 days. 

He now has 41 caps and currently finds himself surrounded by a youthful line-up, which includes uncapped Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Dele Alli.

But the former Southampton man is excited by the make-up of Hodgson’s current crop, chasing a ninth straight win in qualifying.

Harry Kane and Theo Walcott

Harry Kane and Theo Walcott in training on Wednesday

“I feel like one of the old boys, despite only being 26,” he added.

“I’ve been around and experienced a lot of players coming in and out for England. 

“But I feel like this group is a very special group, that shows from the eight games undefeated. Hopefully we can go 10 undefeated, which no other European country has done this year.

“We have to be proud of ourselves, every international game is difficult to play, so you’ve got to give credit to the guys.”

Tickets for Friday's game are still available to buy online, visit www.TheFA.com/tickets to secure your seats for the Three Lions' final home Euro 2016 Qualifier.

By FA Staff