Theo Walcott's potential is one of the reasons Fabio Capello has chosen to dispense with the services of David Beckham, but the Arsenal winger says he has enormous respect for the former England captain. Walcott, who made a successful return to the England side in the 2-1 victory over Hungary, described Beckham as "one of the perfect professionals" and said the former England captain had been in contact over the summer to help lift his spirits following his disappointment at being omitted by Capello from the World Cup squad.

Sir Stuart Rose, the chairman of Marks & Spencer, boasted yesterday that its resolution on executive pay would be passed by investors at its annual meeting next week, after the retailer reported that clothing sales had soared ahead of expectations.

Four months ago it was a building site. Now Royal Bafokeng is the last word in luxury – and security

So bad luck to Marks & Spencer and Nike, who appear to have backed the wrong horse in the run-up to the World Cup. Both have promotional deals with Theo Walcott, surprisingly axed from the England squad on Wednesday. Still, M&S for one is taking the disappointment on the chin, despite picturing Walcott in a number of its adverts. "We always knew there was a risk, but we're proud to be sponsoring the players," the company says, rather ruefully.

When Paul Gascoigne was told he would not be playing in the 1998 World Cup, he trashed the room of his manager, Glenn Hoddle. We can safely assume that there were no such tantrums from the mild-mannered Theo Walcott when the Arsenal winger found out that he will not be part of the England squad that will compete in South Africa later this month.

The consequences will be noted by every England player. They know now that Capello believes there is only one place to live a football career. It is in the day, the moment

Former England defender Alan Mullery felt Theo Walcott's failure to improve over the last year cost him his place in Fabio Capello's squad for the World Cup in South Africa.

Here's a drop of irony to lace the pathos that has lapped around England's World Cup ambitions for 44 years. Could it be that David Beckham may, at his fourth attempt, be on the point of a most decisive contribution?

Sol Campbell has called on Arsenal's talented youngsters to work harder and be more professional if they are to blossom into a side that can win trophies year after year.

David Beckham has admitted to fearing for his place in England's World Cup squad if he does not play regularly until the end of the season. "I am not guaranteed to go to South Africa at all," he said. "I have to work hard and hopefully win my place. There are a few months left and plenty of games but hopefully I can carry on playing well and get in the squad."

Ian Wright has accused senior Manchester City figures of treating his adopted son Shaun Wright-Phillips "like a youth-team player" in contract talks.

Arsene Wenger refuses to be frustrated by Theo Walcott's lack of form as the Arsenal striker continues his return from injury.

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