Theo amazed at England call

England new boy Theo Walcott has spoken to Sky Sports News.

Sven Goran Eriksson sprung a surprise on the football world when he included 17-year old Walcott in his squad, with Jermain Defoe and Darren Bent both missing out as a result.

Walcott has yet to make his Arsenal bow since joining the UEFA Champions League finalists in January from Southampton but England's management nevertheless still feel he has the ability and strength of character to flourish in Germany.

The gifted youngster admits news of his inclusion has not really sunk in, continuing to reveal that he only learnt of his call-up after he had completed his theory driving test.

''I was taking my driving theory test so had to switch my phone off,'' Walcott told Sky Sports News. ''My dad told me he didn't think it was true.

''I was like 'you're having me on'. I was as shocked and surprised as everyone was really, my first thoughts were I can't believe this.

''It was a really big move to Arsenal and then this, it's unbelievable you can't imagine it.

''I was so shocked I couldn't say anything. I was so surprised my eyes were coming out of my head.

''I called my mum, all my family, my girlfriend, she loved it. Their reaction was looking looking forward to going to Germany, now it's unbelievable.

''I did have holidays booked for all the family but I can cancel that now, it's no big deal.''

Eriksson has never seen Walcott play live, but instead picked the player on reports from his scouts and watching him perform in training.

Understandably, Walcott admits he was as shocked as anyone on hearing the news, explaining that he has been in contact with the Swede - who has since explained his decision.

''He actually spoke to me today, just to wish me the best and that he's looking forward to watching me train in Portugal, that's all he's said really,'' he continued.

''Of course it's a gamble, I want to work hard and train with world class players. These are going to be World Cup players too. I just want to improve really.

''It is a bit weird but I've worked hard in training and the boss called Sven up to say I was doing well in training and I can only improve.

''I saw Sven Goran Eriksson at a couple of training sessions but that's it really. He hadn't spoken to me at all before.

''It is something special, the likes of (Wayne) Rooney and (Michael) Owen were put in at a young age, maybe if I do something like they've done in their careers I could go far.

''I watched the World Cup in 2002, every England game but I didn't imagine to be there now really.

''I can't remember whole games but remember Owen's unbelievable goal. I've seen clips but I don't know why people compare me to other players really.

''I just want to be myself.''

Walcott's previous experience of first team football is limited to Championship games for Southampton but the confident forward believes he has what it takes to thrive on the international stage, looking forward to meeting his new team-mates in the next few weeks.

''I've played in front of big crowds, played on telly,'' he concluded.

''It's going to be different but I think I can handle it really. I'm just going to give it all my best really, I know a couple of England players and will get to know them all and try my best.

''I speak to David James the odd time, and of course Ashley Cole and Sol Campbell but that's it really.

''I'll get to know all the boys. It's sunk in a bit now but I'm still quite shocked. You should've seen me yesterday, God.

''It's not a dream, it's unbelievable.''