Theo Walcott: Roy Hodgson warns player he must regain Arsenal starting position to claim place for Euro 2016

The 27-year-old has lost his place in the Gunners starting line-up in recent months

Theo Walcott pictured at the final whistle after the Netherlands defeat (Getty)

Theo Walcott has been warned he must regain his starting position at Arsenal if he is to claim a place in Roy Hodgson’s 23-man England squad for Euro 2016.

The 27-year-old faces a battle to break into Hodgson’s plans for a five-strong forward contingent in France, with Harry Kane, Jamie Vardy, Wayne Rooney and Danny Welbeck all expected to be named in the squad.

Liverpool’s Daniel Sturridge, who struggled to impress during Tuesday’s 2-1 Wembley defeat against the Netherlands, is the man most likely to claim the fifth spot, despite only recently returning from long-term injury problems.

And with Walcott losing his starting spot at Arsenal in recent weeks, Hodgson admits it will be tough for the former Southampton youngster to make the plane for France unless he returns to the first-team.

“I think a lot of players have got work to do and it’s going to be harder for players who don’t get a chance to show what they can do because they don’t make their club team,” Hodgson said. “One can’t deny that it will be even harder for them.

Leicester's Jamie Vardy scored the opening goal against the Netherlands

“I’m sure that when I sit down and digest this defeat (against the Dutch) and get over the disappointment that I feel at this moment in time, I’m certain I will be looking at what is available, what players do seriously come into the category of contenders for places and then of course we will be watching games.

“For Theo, he like quite a lot of other players, will have to try hard to get back in the Arsenal team otherwise I will not be seeing enough of him.

“But we know Theo Walcott, we know what he can do and it will be a balance.”

Hodgson insists he will judge each player’s merits on an individual basis, rather than choose to rule out any of those who do not play regularly at club level.

“I don’t want to be pushed with my back and say, ‘well if he doesn’t play matches you won’t take him then,’” Hodgson said. “’Or you’re going to take him then even if he’s not playing matches.’

“Basically speaking, the simple fact of the matter is that I’m not prepared to say one way or another.

“When I pick the 23, you might well say to me: ‘how on earth did you pick him if he’s not playing for his club side?’

“Or how on earth did you leave this one out? I will accept that.

“When that day comes I will accept opinions and criticisms, but I don’t know why I should accept it seven weeks in advance.”