Arsène Wenger has defended Theo Walcott following criticism of the Arsenal forward's performance for England against Italy, saying that he is still regaining his sharpness after returning from the knee injury that kept him out for almost a year.

Walcott struggled to make an impact in an unfamiliar central role in Tuesday’s the 1-1 draw in Turin.

The 26-year-old has found himself on the bench in recent weeks for Arsenal and the uncertainty over whether he will sign a new contract has prompted speculation about his future.

Wenger said it will take a while for Walcott to shake off the rust. He missed the World Cup after rupturing the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee last January and only returned to first- team action in November .

“He has been out for a year with a very bad injury and he’s coming back,” the manager said. “But being exposed like that, people have a harsh judgment on him that is not deserved because he does well. For me, he is on course to come back but he’s not completely there.”

“He needs patience. He is at the moment not in his best mood.” Guardian Service