Walcott had been tipped for a call-up from Steve McClaren

There was speculation that Walcott would be named in Steve McClaren's full England squad for the potentially vital Euro 2008 qualifier against Croatia.

Everton's James Vaughan, who is still recovering from a thigh injury, was selected, but has since withdrawn.

England play Bulgaria on 16 November and Portugal four days later.

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England are currently top of their qualifying group with four wins out of four.

Sunderland's Grant Leadbitter has earned a call-up, but West Ham midfielder Mark Noble will miss the qualifiers as he is due to undergo a double hernia operation.

Under-21 coach Stuart Pearce said: "We've got some absentees with Mark Noble, Michael Johnson and Martin Cranie all out, but have been able to bring in some new players who have been looking good this season.

"It's the first time back in for James Vaughan since the summer and he's been very unlucky with injuries otherwise he would have been in the other squads this season.

"But it's good to see him back in contention, especially after a goal for Everton on Saturday."

England Under-21 squad: