West Ham United legend Sir Geoff Hurst hopes Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger can rebuild the confidence of Theo Walcott.

The World Cup winner believes Walcott will be back in an England shirt sooner rather than later though, especially if Arsenal boss Wenger manages to rebuild the confidence of the former Southampton forward following the decision.

"It doesn't surprise me that he wasn't included," said Hurst. "The reason he hasn't been included is because of his lack of consistency of performance.

"He has certainly not replicated the form he first showed when he was included in the England squad, mainly thanks to his injuries.

"Nevertheless, if he has a good season and he can replicate the form he started with last year then he can get back in the team. He is quite capable of that.

"Arsene Wenger will be very important to Theo's recovery. He is a great manager and a magnificent mentor to the young players at that club."