Theo Walcott vows to recreate Arsenal form for England
Arsenal forward remains positive about his England performances despite a lengthy goal drought
England forward Theo Walcott is eager to recreate his recent goal-scoring form with Arsenal on the international stage.
The 22-year-old has not scored for Fabio Capello’s side since his memorable hat-trick in England’s 4-1 victory over Croatia in Zagreb almost three years ago.
But Walcott, who has netted three times in five appearances for Arsenal so far this season, does not feel his lack of goals for the national team is an issue.
“I am scoring goals for my club and now hopefully I can take it to the international level and forget about those goals [against Croatia],” said Walcott ahead of England’s Euro 2012 qualifier against Wales on Tuesday.
“There are a lot of players who don’t manage to score for their countries. I’m not putting too much pressure on myself because apart from the goals, everything else is going well.”
Capello has rewarded some of England’s youngsters, including Manchester United trio Tom Cleverley, Phil Jones and Chris Smalling, for their fine start to the domestic season by selecting them in his squad.
And the Gunners forward paid tribute to the manager for giving England’s young stars the chance to impress for the national side.
“There are some great players coming through, and a few coming from the Under-21s as well – the manager gives a chance to the young players to show what they can do.
“That’s what you want from a manager, if you’re playing well you will get to play, show what you can do and try and put pressure on someone else’s position.
“I’m going to be on my toes as well there are some great players behind me.”
Gareth Barry and Scott Parker were preferred to Frank Lampard in midfield for England’s 3-0 win against Bulgaria in Sofia.
And Walcott believes the 33-year-old Chelsea midfielder still has something to offer Capello’s side.
“Frank has been a great player throughout the years,” Walcott said. “It’s the manager’s decision, everyone’s spot is up for grabs here.
“There is so much competition, so many players playing every week for their Premier League teams, and if you’re playing well the manager will pick you.
“That’s what he showed by picking the young players but Frank has got plenty to offer still.”
Walcott also hailed the positive impact of an in-form Wayne Rooney after the Manchester United forward scored twice against Bulgaria on Friday.
“He’s scoring goals and that’s what Wayne has been known for,” continued Walcott. “Just by having him on the pitch you get an extra per cent out of all the other players, especially when he’s playing well. He just creates so much space for other players.
“It’s great to see and hopefully he can just continue to score goals because he’s an absolute threat and now he’s doing it for club and country, which is great to see.”
