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Theo Walcott admits he is playing ‘the waiting game’ at Arsenal as talks between the club and his representatives continue, but feels confident that a contract extension will be signed sooner rather than later.
The 26-year-old has reportedly attracted the interests of both Liverpool and Manchester City this year, as speculation surrounds his future at the club as his current deal enters its final year.
Walcott, who returned to fitness last season in time to score Arsenal’s opening goal in the 4-0 FA Cup final victory over Aston Villa, confirmed that talks with the club are on-going and, while he is optimistic a deal will be struck, he insists he is ‘not dwelling’ on the matter.
He told reporters: "My agent has talked to the club, I enjoy playing for this club so I am just letting them crack on with things and I’ll continue playing football.”
"If it happens it happens. We’ll just play the waiting game and see what happens but I’m sure it won’t be long.
"It’s not in my thought process at all. You don’t want to dwell on it, you want to play well and if it happens it happens.
"I won’t let that delay the way I’m going to be playing this season. I can’t let that affect me, I want to do well for this club.”
The England international has featured just 27 times in the Premier League over the past two seasons following the knee ligament injury suffered against north London rivals Spurs at the start of 2014.
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Buy with his injury nightmare seemingly behind him, Walcott is eyeing a successful campaign with the Gunners once the new season kicks off in a month’s time.
"I didn't want the season to end. It was a frustrating season for me. When you have been out for such a long time, it is difficult to get into a winning team," Walcott continued.
"It’s my first pre-season for two years now so I want to work hard and get fit. It’s a really exciting year for myself personally and I think this team can go very far.
"I’m always going to be judged on goals, I’ve been very happy with my goal record when given the opportunity. That is all I can do."
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