Don Walcott, father of former England star Theo Walcott, has issued a heartfelt message to the families of players selected for the upcoming World Cup, urging them to savour every moment. In an exclusive interview with the Mirror, Don, 67, reflected on his son's surprise inclusion in the 2006 England squad as a 17-year-old, describing the experience as a 'special time' that passes quickly.
Don recalled the family's time in Baden Baden during the 2006 tournament, where they made lifelong friends. He shared a vivid memory of attending a team barbecue, sitting behind David and Victoria Beckham while holding his baby grandson Sebastian, now 21. 'There was no social media really then... perhaps that's what made it so special,' he added.
Theo Walcott remains England's youngest ever international, debuting at 17 years and 75 days in May 2006 before heading to the World Cup in Germany, where England were eliminated in the quarter-finals. Don acknowledged the challenges of supporting a child travelling for football but said he 'wouldn't have missed it for the world.'
Now a grandfather of seven, Don will watch the upcoming tournament from home, expressing optimism about England's chances. 'I think we can win it. We've got some great players,' he said. England, managed by Thomas Tuchel, will play group matches in Kansas City, Dallas, Boston, and New York, with the final scheduled for July 19 in New York.
