Arsenal starlet Jack Wilshere is a serious World Cup contender according to England boss Fabio Capello.

The 17-year old midfielder has been developing beautifully under Arsene Wenger and Capello can see even further improvement if he is able to play regular first team games this season.

"He surprised me. Really. I saw him last year two times because he played in the Carling Cup and he has improved a lot now," Capello told reporters.

"He plays without fear, with confidence. And the other players passed the ball always to him. This is not normal to be so young and so good.

"We have time before we have to decide if he will go to South Africa. It depends a lot on Arsene Wenger, if he will play him."