Theo Walcott believes Arsenal are on the verge of a British invasion, writes Jem Maidment. The young striker is in the England squad for Saturday s World Cup qualifier with Andorra and Wednesday s tough trip to Croatia. He says more of his compatriots are

Theo Walcott believes Arsenal are on the verge of a British invasion, writes Jem Maidment.

The young striker is in the England squad for Saturday's World Cup qualifier with Andorra and Wednesday's tough trip to Croatia.

He says more of his compatriots are slowly making their way into The Emirates dressing room - and tips them to join him on the pitch soon.

The Gunners have been roundly criticised for not using enough English players under Arsene Wenger. The last time Arsenal fielded an entirely English XI was 14 years ago - a feat not likely to be matched for many years to come.

Kieran Gibbs and Mark Randall, both 18, both signed long-term deals this week. And Walcott, in particular, rates 16-year-old prodigy Jack Wilshere.

"He's a really nice lad," Walcott told the official matchday programme. "For a little lad he's very strong, he's got a good left foot and his link-up play and reading of the game is fantastic.

"He makes it look so easy when he plays and every time he gets the ball and does something he brings a smile to your face.

"I'm sure he'll get a chance or two this season, he's still young so he'll want to play, but he will need rest as well.

"It's nice to have another English face in the changing room though, especially after Justin Hoyte left. I was sad to see Justin go, but with Jack and Aaron Ramsey there are a few Brits in the squad.