Capello: Walcott not the same since injury

Capello: Walcott not the same since injury

England manager Fabio Capello claims he does not see the same player in Theo Walcott since his comeback from injury.

The Italian left Arsenal winger Walcott out of his squad for the World Cup, despite the 21-year-old playing a big part in England's qualifying campaign.

However, Walcott has struggled with injuries this season, and Capello believes a lack of regular first-team meant he was not ready to take part in the World Cup this year.

Capello explained: "It was a really hard decision for me. I know Theo Walcott was really important in the games we played in qualification.

"But after his operation on his shoulder he did not play a lot of games. He was not the same player we knew before the injury.

"I hope that he will be fit and over injury and he will be back in the team for the other qualifiers [Euro 2012]. It was hard for me, but we had to choose the best players for the squad."

Capello went on to say that he believes his side are one of the strongest in the tournament, and sees no reason why they should not be considered favourites to win in South Africa.

He said: "I think this team is really good. The players are high on confidence and I don't know why we can't win the World Cup.

"I know the other teams are strong, and we need to be lucky, but I think we are one of the best teams. The confidence will be vital and the recovery after a long Premier League season."

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Written by Mark Brus on Friday, June 4, 2010

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After his operation on his shoulder he did not play a lot of games. He was not the same player we knew before the injury

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