Theo Walcott had been the subject of gossip in 2006. Walcott was surprisingly called up to be part of England in the 2006 World Cup.
The former Arsenal player became England's youngest player to participate in the 2006 World Cup. Other young players who also joined Walcott were Wayne Rooney and Aaron Lennon.
At that time, the England national team was quite surprising by bringing a young squad to the 2006 World Cup. The England national team was strengthened by players with the majority under 25 years of age.
Of the 23 players brought in by coach Sven-Goran Eriksson, only four are aged three. Even the three players who brought England were still in their teens.
17-Year-Old Boy on the Biggest Stage
Walcott's invitation to participate in defending England in the 2006 World Cup certainly raises big questions. Because Walcott at that time had just turned 17 years old.
Many think that calling Walcott is just a big gamble for coach Sven-Goran Eriksson. English fans are also aware of what to expect from a 17-year-old boy.
But young Walcott in fact accepted this England coach's offer. Finally, Walcott decided to go to Germany to become Michael Owen's coating in attack.
Walcott's Bad Luck: Never Played
The young Walcott who was called up to defend his country at the World Cup certainly felt proud. Walcott has high hopes to be able to go far with the England national team in the 2006 World Cup.
Instead of hoping to shine, Walcott did not play in the 2006 World Cup. Coach Sven-Goran Eriksson did not even give Walcott a minute to play.
As a result, young Walcott only became a spectator at the 2006 World Cup. Until England fell in the Quarter Finals, Walcott was never revealed by the coach.