image: worldsoccer.com

Before he's kicked a ball in the Premiership or on the international stage, Theo Walcott has received a ringing endorsement from two of the games biggest names. Ronaldinho and Eto'o have both endorsed Walcott's inclusion in England's World Cup squad, welcoming the Arsenal youngster into that special group of talents who played international football as teenagers.

Ronaldinho said: "Football has no age. If he has quality, I see no problem in him being included. I think it's a normal thing."

Eto'o compared Walcott's inclusion to his own experience, after going to France '98 with Cameroon: "I played at the World Cup at the age of 17. I think he (Walcott) has to live the dream to the maximum. The World Cup is the most important event in a footballer's life and I remember when I was told that I would play in a World Cup. It was one of the most important days in my life. At 17, it's a dream. You cannot believe it's happening to you. I loved the experience and I remember running on a pitch after a game against Italy. I went running onto the pitch to ask for (Roberto) Baggio's shirt."

This nice enough welcome is tempered slightly by the fact that probably neither man had any idea who Walcott was this time last week. Also, Ronaldinho and Eto'o must be wondering why, if the lad's so good, will he not be lining up against them in next weeks Champions League final.