2010 World Cup news: Wenger backs Theo Walcott for selection

22/02/2010

Theo Walcott will be back to his best in time for the selection of England's 2010 World Cup squad, according to Arsene Wenger.

The Arsenal manager admitted that his young winger, who was a member of the Three Lions' World Cup tour to Germany in 2006 under previous national coach Sven-Goran Eriksson, has yet to reach top form in what has been an injury-plagued 2009-10 campaign.

Problems with his back, knee, hamstring and ribs have kept Walcott's participation so far this season down to just five Premier League starts, including the February 20th 2-0 victory over Sunderland at the Emirates.

But despite this, Wenger expressed confidence that the youngster is still in line for a place in England coach Fabio Capello's plans for the 2010 World Cup.

"I think he will make the squad," he said. "When players have been out for a while it takes a while to get back to your best with confidence, sharpness and zip.

"That will come back with Theo."

Posted by Katie Leake