Arsenal's Gilberto (centre) celebrates with teammates Alexander Hleb (left) and Johan Djourou after scoring a goal during their English Premier League football match at The Emirates Stadium in London, on Saturday. - REUTERS

LONDON (Reuters):

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger says teenage winger Theo Walcott has matured and is ready to earn an England recall next year.

The 17-year-old has made only three starts for the Premier League side since a £12 million move from Southampton in January but has impressed when coming off the bench.

Walcott was a surprise inclusion in Sven-Goran Eriksson's World Cup squad but played no part in the tournament and has since dropped down to the Under-21s.

"I feel 2007 is a big year for Theo," Wenger told reporters on Friday. "He has made big steps forward. What I like about him is he is decisive in every game.

"He has played a few games and done well, but even more in training he looks a different player to what he was six months ago.

"His power and personality in the game have improved. Before it was only with pace, but now he forces the decision and shrugs people off.

"I must say he will be a candidate for England now. He will play more and more for us now."

Possible challenge

Wenger believes third-placed Arsenal, who trail leaders Manchester United by 14 points, can still mount a challenge for the title.

"We have the belief that we have the potential," Wenger added. "We have not given up in the championship race.

"At the moment everyone says it is a two-horse race (United and Chelsea). We are not in the race, but we have to try to get back into it.

"What makes me positive is the atmosphere in the dressing room, and the motivation of the players.

"I believe in this team and I am sure in the end you will be surprised at the end of the season.

"Everybody can drop points against everybody. We have shown them the way."