Capello's gaga for Walcott

England boss hails Arsenal teenager's ability

By James Dall   Last updated: 11th April 2008

Theo Walcott England training

Walcott: Capello backing

Related links

Teams

Players

Also see

England manager Fabio Capello has hailed Theo Walcott after witnessing the Arsenal teenager's impact against Liverpool on Tuesday.

Walcott demonstrated incredible quality when he came on as a second-half substitute during the second leg of the UEFA Champions League quarter-final at Anfield.

The 19-year-old ventured on a lengthy run before cutting back for Emmanuel Adebayor, who tucked home to make it 2-2.

And Capello has expressed his excitement at the potential of Walcott, who was an unused substitute when England lost 1-0 to France in Paris last month.

The Italian said: "I was at Anfield to see Arsenal face Liverpool and the atmosphere was electric. It was a wonderful game and both teams played their part in creating such a spectacle.

Incredible

"I was delighted with the impact that Theo Walcott made on the game - the run he made for Arsenal's second goal was incredible.

"To go past so many players with such speed and balance is one thing, but to have the composure and awareness to pick a pass at the crucial moment showed great skill and maturity.

"There can be no disputing Walcott's ability."

If Walcott continues his impressive development Capello might well involve him in England's next match which is against the USA at Wembley on 26th May.