Theo Walcott injury: Arsenal forward dashes any hopes of World Cup 2014 inclusion by electing to undergo full and safe operation

Walcott had been offered a chance of featuring in Brazil by undergoing a risky procedure using a synthetic tendon to repair his ruptured anterior cruciate ligament

Theo Walcott lies injured on the pitch in Arsenal's FA Cup victory over Tottenham (GETTY IMAGES)

Arsenal winger Theo Walcott has rejected the chance to take a ‘quick fix’ option in his recovery from a serious knee injury, turning down the approaches from specialists and surgeons who claim they can get him fit for the World Cup later this year.

Walcott was carried off the Emirates pitch late-on during the 2-0 FA Cup victory over Tottenham last Sunday, and a scan showed he had ruptured his anterior cruciate knee ligament, meaning his season was immediately over.

The England international was quickly approached by leading surgeons worldwide who claim they could give the forward a chance of making Brazil later this year, but Walcott has decided against the option in order to undergo a full and safe recovery period.

Walcott met his surgeon in London earlier this week to set out the recovery plans, where he was informed that there are possible operations that could see him playing again in three or four months, although he would have to go abroad to seek the treatment.

Using the safest method, Walcott will undergo a patella tendon graft to reattach the ruptured ligament, before starting a long and gruelling rehabilitation period.

The alternative option would require a synthetic tendon to be used, although potential serious issues could arise should his body reject it. The same problems could occur if a tendon from a dead body is used.

Speaking about Walcott’s condition, Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger said: “Theo is handling it as well as you can when you have had such a shock because he’s mentally strong, he’s very balanced as a person and he can put it into perspective.

“We know that he will have the dedication and the serious attitude to come back as strong as ever.

“We lost a very talented player, a very intelligent player and a player who was just grabbing his form again. From game to game he became more influential, you’ve seen a complete player.”

Video: Wenger on Walcott's injury