Manchester United are set to join Liverpool in the chase for Arsenal contract rebel Theo Walcott, according to reports from the Mirror.

Despite his contract expiring in the summer of 2016, Walcott has yet to start negotiations with the Gunners hierarchy over a new deal.

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The England winger has struggled for a first-team role since returning from a long-term knee injury he picked up at the beginning of 2014, and is reluctant to sign a new deal unless he is guaranteed a pay-rise and regular playing time.

The 26-year-old ‘s situation has alerted Liverpool and Man United, with champions Manchester City supposedly also keen on his services.

But despite his lack of first-team football, Walcott was still called up for the England squad to face Lithuania in a Euro 2016 Qualifier on Friday and a friendly with Italy next week.

And Three Lions boss Roy Hodgson claims that unless Walcott can play on a regular basis, then his national team place could be in real jeopardy.

He said: “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.

“It is an important few months for him. He’s been concentrating on training. We’ve enjoyed having him back. You can see he likes to be with England and enjoys that aspect of his professional football career.

“But he’s got to satisfy a few of his critics and, if you like, make certain a) he stays fit and b) gets his place back as one of the first names on the Arsenal team sheet. When he does that, he might be pushing for a first name on the England team sheet.

“Every time, sometimes through no fault of your own... you can be injured. But then suddenly your position, which had looked very secure, suddenly six months down the line is not so secure. That’s something all footballers learn to live with.

“With England, he’s always been a very good servant. He’s been with me in my three years without necessarily playing the main figure. He’s always been there in the background.

"Whenever we thought we could use him, he’s got injured again.”

 

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