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Wenger in new Theo challenge
21 Jul 2008Arsene Wenger has challenged Theo Walcott to force his way into the England team this season.
During two years with Arsenal, Walcott has been notable mainly for the occasional impressive cameo and Wenger now believes it is time for the forward to assume greater responsibility.
The Gunners manager said: "Can he break into the England side? That is what I wish. He is 19 and at that age you have to improve. Theo made a step forward last season and we expect him to do that again this time."
Walcott played in the 2-1 win at Barnet on Saturday but it was 17-year-old Aaron Ramsey, signed from Cardiff, who caught the eye.
Wenger added: "He will get an opportunity when he is ready, but there is a lot of competition with other young players."
