Arsenal forward Theo Walcott is set to miss the start of the season as he continues to fight his way back from a knee injury suffered in January against Tottenham.
Walcott had to be stretchered off in the FA Cup third-round tie after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligaments.
The 25-year-old had to sit out England’s World Cup campaign, adding to the disappointment of being overlooked for the national side in 2010 by then boss Fabio Capello for the tournament in South Africa.
The former Southampton man has struggled with injuries during his time at the Emirates and may face a tough time breaking back into first team contention with new signing Alexis Sanchez expected to provide some healthy competition.
Boss Arsene Wenger has confirmed that he expects Walcott to return to the training ground in late August.
“Theo has a good basis, which is what he’s working on now,” he said.
The England international revealed that he has slowly been trying to do more work and hopes that he can start building up his strength.
Walcott said: “Things are looking really good and I have worked very hard for the last five months now.
“The most important thing is getting the strength back and it has pretty much nearly healed – it is just about building up that stability and strength again.”
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