Arsenal's Walcott and Oxlade-Chamberlain could face Liverpool

Arsenal and England forward Theo Walcott could make his return from injury in time for Sunday's crucial clash with Liverpool at Anfield.

Manager Arsene Wenger revealed the 25-year-old, who has made just two appearances this season as a substitute before another spell on the sidelines, is back in training after a groin problem he suffered while on international duty with England.

While Wenger will take no chances on Walcott's rehabilitation, the imminent availability of the jet-heeled forward will come as a welcome boost ahead of the hectic Christmas schedule, which could also see both defender Nacho Monreal and midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain shake off their fitness problems.

'There is a slight chance of (Nacho) Monreal being available and a very slight chance for Walcott. We hope that Oxlade-Chamberlain will be fit. We will see that on Saturday,' Wenger told Arsenal Player.

'He (Walcott) is back in training today (Thursday), but only today. I might take him (to Liverpool), I don't know yet until he is back to full training. Let's see.'

Oxlade-Chamberlain limped out of the closing stages of Arsenal's 4-1 Premier League win over Newcastle last weekend with a groin problem which the club hope will prove to be minor.

Arsenal will be looking to remain within striking distance of the top four with a positive result at Anfield to continue their upturn in form, which has seen five wins from six across all competitions.

Credit: Pete Hall/SportsMail