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There's A Rumour Circulating About Theo Walcott And His International Career

There's A Rumour Circulating About Theo Walcott And His International Career

Walcott was overlooked in the latest England squad.

Anonymous

Anonymous

Social media is awash with references to Theo Walcott retiring from international duty after he was left out of Gareth Southgate's latest squad - but there's been no official announcement from the player of national team.

After scoring 17 goals in all competitions so far this season, Walcott was probably very hopeful of making it into the 23-man group, but yesterday, on his 28th birthday, he received a call from Southgate telling him he'd been overlooked, with the Three Lions boss admitting he wasn't happy.

Gareth Southgate even rang the Arsenal frontman to inform him of his decision - on his birthday, no less. Needless to say, Walcott wasn't happy.

"I've got to say he wasn't chuffed to bits to get the call. And I understand that. Did he argue his case? Yes. Quite rightly."

Southgate claims Walcott argued his case, saying; "I'm one of the leading goalscorers in the league."

But Southgate hasn't ruled out a potential call-up in the future, while explaining his decision-making.

"He's a player I still like. I've said to him that I'm not ruling him out but, in terms of just having him as a squad player, I think it's a better opportunity for me to look at one or two others. With our wide players - the way we're playing at the moment we like to get the players between the lines slightly differently. Theo is more a player who runs in behind defences."

Theo Walcott
Theo Walcott

However, the untidy episode seems to have created rumours online that Walcott has actually decided to withdraw himself from England selection - without the player himself saying anything of the sort.

Theo Walcott
Theo Walcott

Dozens of people have been tweeting Walcott about his 'retirement':

At the time this article was published, there has been no official announcement, and it looks like everybody is merely putting two and two together and coming up with five.

If Walcott does indeed retire, we'll let you know.

Do you think it would be the right call if he does call it a day? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.

This story was first featured on talkingbaws.com - simple, shareable sport. Like them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter.

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Topics: Football, England, Theo Walcott, Arsenal