THEO WALCOTT has been named in England's under-17s squad for next month's UEFA European Championships - and praised by Sven Goran Eriksson's assistant, Tord Grip.

Winger Walcott reminded the nation of his talent by creating both Saints goals in the 2-2 FA Youth Cup final first leg draw with Ipswich Town in front of the Sky Sports cameras and will have another chance to showcase his talents for England under-17s in Italy next month.

Grip saw Walcott play during a tournament in the Algarve in January as he looks for the players that could star for England in the 2010 World Cup.

And he said: "Technically, he is very good - and extremely fast as well. He has the ability to beat defenders with his skill, pace and balance. He is so mature for his age and has a very strong character. He should get better and better."

Walcott, 16 last month, has scored five goals in seven games for England Under-17s and is joined in the 18-man England squad by Ipswich Town striker Darryl Knights, who he will be up against at Portman Road in Friday night's second leg, and Everton's James Vaughan, who became the Premiership's youngest goalscorer last month.

England Under-17s will take on Belarus, Turkey and hosts Italy and boss John Peacock said: "It's a strong squad with some really good players who I am looking forward to seeing in action."