Walcott joy at birthday present

Arsenal youngster celebrates in style with England recall

By James Dall   Last updated: 20th March 2008

Theo Walcott England

Walcott: England recall

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Arsenal forward Theo Walcott has spoken of his delight at being recalled to the England squad for the friendly international against France in Paris on Wednesday.

Walcott became the youngest England international in history when he made his debut against Hungary in a pre-World Cup friendly in May 2006.

He was a surprise and unused member of former manager Sven Goran Eriksson's squad during the 2006 World Cup finals.

Celebrated

Walcott has since steadily developed under Gunners manager Arsene Wenger, tallying 29 appearances so far this season.

And after turning 19-years-old on Sunday, Walcott has expressed his joy at being named in Fabio Capello's 30-man squad.

"I celebrated my 19th birthday on Sunday," he told the club's official website.

"So the call-up is a great birthday present for me. I'm looking forward to meeting up with all of the lads after the weekend's game."