Walcott available again after back problem

Theo Walcott is back in training and back in the first-team frame – but he may not be risked this weekend.

The England star has been conspicuous by his absence this season after hurting his back during Arsenal’s pre-season friendly at Valencia on August 8.

Walcott managed just 45 minutes in that game – his only club action all summer – and has not played since. But the 20-year-old appears to have turned the corner and could even feature at Fulham this weekend.

“Walcott is now back in normal training,” revealed Arsène Wenger at his pre-match press conference.

“He has only played 45 minutes since June so he lacks a little bit of competition. He was short for the West Brom game [on Tuesday] but he's available again. He needs match practice.

“I don't know [if he could figure this weekend] He is still a bit short because it's the week he's back to full, normal training. But the good news is that he's available again.”