Theo Walcott has insisted that his recent run of form warrants more starts in the Arsenal team.

The England international netted a crucial opening goal in the draw against Schalke on Tuesday evening but missed a late chance as the Gunners failed to secure three points in Germany.

Walcott said: "I just want to play, and hopefully now I can get a run in the team because I feel I fully deserve it.

"It was a good point but it would have been a fantastic victory. I did all I could with the late chance. The ball got stuck to my feet and I just couldn't get it out."

Arsene Wenger has admitted that the club's negotiations with Walcott over a new contract have become urgent.