Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger fears the fans are turning on Theo Walcott.

Walcott, who will be a free agent next summer, could remain on the bench for tonight's Champions League opener at Montpellier.

Boss Wenger said: "It is a worry. You want your players to be supported no matter what contractual situation they are in. I hope it does not affect me or his fans.

"I hope to extend his contract so, at the moment, it does not affect me."

Walcott, wanted by Chelsea and Liverpool, has turned down an offer from Arsenal worth £75,000 a week but he is understood to be keen to stay.