Capello calls up Gibbs and Wilshere for Hungary friendly

Fabio Capello has named Arsenal starlets Kieran Gibbs and Jack Wilshere in his England squad to face Hungary for Wednesday’s friendly at Wembley.

Fulham’s Bobby Zamora has also been handed a place in the 23-man squad and is joined by Theo Walcott, Manchester City’s Adam Johnson and Sunderland striker Darren Bent.

Notable omissions include Tottenham strikers Jermain Defoe and Peter Crouch and Liverpool’s new signing Joe Cole. Goalkeepers Robert Green and David James are also dropped as only 10 of England’s World Cup squad make the squad for Wednesday’s match.

Gibbs, 20, said he was “honoured” to be included in Capello’s squad.

“It’s a welcome surprise to have been called up by Fabio Capello to the England squad for the first time,” said the defender.

“It is always an honour to play for my country at any level but it is a special moment to be called up to the first team squad.”

“I have to say this a real boost for me as I spent over five months out through injury and this is a good opportunity to thank the surgeons and medical support I’ve received to get me back to full fitness.”

Wilshere has won five caps at under-21 level and was delighted upon receiving the news of his inclusion.

“I’m delighted to have been named in the Senior England squad for the first time,” said the 18-year-old. “It is a real honour and I’m looking forward to the experience.”

“I’m also realistic and want to take things one step at a time. Being called up to the England squad is a proud moment for me and my family, but my first target is to break into the Arsenal team and play on a regular basis.

“To achieve that, I need to keep my head down, work hard and stay focused.”

England Squad to face Hungary:

Goalkeepers: Ben Foster (Birmingham), Joe Hart (Manchester City)

Defenders: Wes Brown (Manchester United), Gary Cahill (Bolton), Ashley Cole (Chelsea), Michael Dawson (Tottenham Hotspur), Kieran Gibbs (Arsenal), Phil Jagielka (Everton), Glen Johnson (Liverpool), John Terry (Chelsea)

Midfielders: Gareth Barry (Manchester City), Steven Gerrard (Liverpool), Adam Johnson (Manchester City), Frank Lampard (Chelsea), James Milner (Aston Villa), Ashley Young (Aston Villa), Theo Walcott (Arsenal), Jack Wilshere (Arsenal)

Forwards: Darren Bent (Sunderland), Carlton Cole (West Ham United), Wayne Rooney (Manchester United), Bobby Zamora (Fulham)