Arsenal attacker Theo Walcott has paid tribute to Chelsea fullback Ashley Cole.

Cole is poised to win his 100th England cap against the Brazilians, 11 years after making his debut.

Walcott said: "It is a fantastic achievement. There are only a few top-class players in that category (who reach 100 caps) and I am sure there will be many more to come.

"He is a difficult player to play against. I learned a lot from him. I got the better of him in the last couple of meetings, which I wind him up about all the time.

"We get on very well. I am only going to learn from the likes of him, Steven and Frank.

"Ashley is massively important. He is so experienced and has won many things. A lot of players look up to him.

"He is a strong character. He can deal with anything. It is all about the game. Nothing fazes him. He is very concentrated."