Former England captain Alan Shearer believes Theo Walcott should be in World Cup squad

Former England great Alan Shearer is adamant Arsenal winger Theo Walcott deserves a spot in the Three Lions squad for this summer's World Cup.

Walcott has been widely criticised for a lack of progression and not having a sound football I.Q following a poor showing against Egypt in a friendly match earlier this month.  

With the recent Achilles injury to David Beckham, Shearer believes England boss Fabio Capello can look at a couple of players to potentially fill the right wing spot.

"I would have thought that David Beckham would have gone to the World Cup, and I assume that if Aaron Lennon is fit and playing well he will be, so I think there's another place up for grabs,” Shearer told BBC Radio Five Live.

"I would take Theo Walcott. I'm a fan of his.

"I know he's been criticised for his final ball and his football brain but the future is very very bright for him."

Walcott, who was chosen to represent England at the 2006 World Cup at age 17, has struggled with injury problems this season, and has been inconsistent when called upon.

Despite some poor form this season, Shearer sees Walcott going to South Africa, especially with Beckham now unable to play.

"I would have thought he [Capello] might have used Theo Walcott as his fifth striker, and I would have said there would be no place for Carlton Cole."

"I would have Rooney as one, and Crouch, Heskey and Defoe would be the others. I think there's another space there now.