England

Theo Walcott's Under-21 Experience Invaluable - Stuart Pearce

The young winger is better prepared for South Africa 2010, says the Young Lions boss...

Jul 5, 2009 8:38:45 AM

Theo Walcott, the Arsenal and England striker involved in the 'Back The Bid' campaign as he supports England's bid to host the 2018 World Cup

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Theo Walcott

England Under-21 manager Stuart Pearce believes Theo Walcott's experience at the European Championship in Sweden this year could prove vital to him and his country at next year's World Cup in South Africa.

The Young Lions reached the final of the tournament before crashing to defeat against Germany 4-0 with Walcott playing as a lone striker due to injuries and suspensions.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger had been somewhat irked by the England international's participation in the competition, but Pearce sees the move as invaluable to the youngster's development.

"There was some contention over Theo's inclusion but I think the experience will help him in South Africa without a doubt," said Pearce, according to Mirror.co.uk.

"Hopefully he can now walk out in South Africa in a year's time with this experience.

"He'll know what it's like to take a penalty in a penalty shoot-out, he knows what it's like to play in sudden-death matches and in a major final.

"Theo knows what its like to be involved in tournament football now. He has been to the World Cup with the seniors but he never actually played.

"It's important that he didn't get caught in noman's land in international football where he didn't get any experience."

Jamie Dunn, Goal.com

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