A provisional England squad for Euro 2016 was announced on Monday morning and, despite an injury for Danny Welbeck, Theo Walcott didn’t receive a call-up.

The Arsenal forward would have hoped to get a nod after knee surgery ruled Welbeck out for nine months but was overlooked for Newcastle United winger Andros Townsend.

“They’re players I respect and admire but you have to make a decision, there are only 23 players I can take,” Hodgson said to the media as his squad was announced. It seems like Welbeck’s position was always going to be taken by either Townsend or Walcott, but the former Tottenham man got the nod.

On recent form, it’s hard to argue. Walcott’s game is based on goals but he netted just five in the Premier League all season and hasn’t started for Arsenal in the league since February.

“They’re both good players, they’re very different. They play in wide positions, both of them, but they aren’t similar players.

“Theo, unfortunately, over the last few months has not got regular games and has had a few injuries. It’s a tough decision but one you have to make.”

Walcott took to Twitter after the announcement, wishing England all the best for the tournament.