Theo Walcott shows pictures of knee injury on Twitter that made him miss World Cup

Theo Walcott revealed the extent of the horrifying knee injury that left this World Cup dream in tatters.

The 25-year-old has been out since sustaining a nasty during Arsenal's FA Cup third round win over Tottenham in January.

Having had to undergo surgery, it was clear that Walcott wouldn't be back in time for the World Cup, which commences on June 12 in Brazil.

Damage: Theo Walcott posted this image of his knee recovering from season-ending surgery

End of the road: Walcott's season was over when he injured his knee against Tottenham in January

Fading: It soon became clear to Walcott that he would not be back in time for the World Cup this summer

Walcott took to Twitter to post a series of images that showed the extent of the damage suffered by his knee.

The first picture shows the Arsenal forward's leg with a number of gashes on just after surgery.

The next image is Walcott's knee in light bandage on the way to healing, and the last picture shows his fully-healed leg which is left with a large scar.

Walcott posted the image with the caption: 'Over 4 months since op - knee getting stronger every day'.

Coming of age: Walcott scored six goals in 18 games for Arsenal this season before his injury

Salute: The Arsenal forward enraged Tottenham fans with this salute during a 2-0 win

Silverware: Walcott joined in with Arsenal's FA Cup parade and celebrations in north London

The Arsenal forward was taken off on a stretcher during their 2-0 win over Tottenham in the FA Cup third round, and he left the pitch with a cheeky salute to Spurs fans.

He managed six goals in 18 appearances for Arsenal before injury ruined his season and World Cup chances.

Having made his international debut in 2006, Walcott has scored five times for England but missed out on their World Cup squad four years ago.