Youngest players from the last 5 editions of the World Cup

Theo Walcott (England) in 2006

Everton Players Return for Pre-Season Training

12 years ago in Germany, on 8 May 2006, Walcott was surprisingly named in England's squad by manager Sven-Göran Eriksson's for the 2006 FIFA World Cup. Despite having only made 13 appearances in senior football and making none since joining Arsenal but Eriksson defended his decision, claiming that the experience would serve Walcott well for future tournaments.

Walcott did not play in Germany in 2006, however, he was an integral member of the England side for a number of years during his Arsenal years. Walcott moved to Everton from the Gunners to gain more playing time and needed a change in environment, to avoid stagnation.

Walcott was not selected by Gareth Southgate for this current edition and has never been selected for a World Cup competition since 2006.