Despite playing a large part in the UEFA U21 Championship qualification campaign, Walcott has been unavailable for the England's two-legged play-off with Wales due to his senior team commitments.

However, Pearce is confident that Walcott has not made his last appearance for the Under-21s and believes that as long as the Under-21 games do not clash with senior outings, then Walcott will be a player at his disposal.

"Theo's played seven of those qualifiers so far, he's been an integral part in the Under-21 squad, so I don't see any reason why not," Pearce told Sky Sports News when asked whether Walcott could yet return to the Under-21 fold.

"We're trying to win a major tournament whether it be at Under-21 or at senior level.

"If the games overlap and someone's been good enough to be in the senior team, then fine.

"If they're not - if the games don't overlap and they've been an integral part of the Under-21 squad - then no problem."

And although Pearce is desperate to have the country's best under-21 talent in his side, the former England international admits that his ultimate goal is to see his charges follow in Walcott's footsteps and reach the senior squad.

"I'm also hopeful that one or two of my players after the game on Tuesday night [against Wales] will get the opportunity to step up into the senior team and get experience there," added Pearce.