Arsenal winger Theo Walcott is facing a shock World Cup axe today.

BBC Sport says Walcott is the surprise omission from England's 23-man World Cup squad.

Walcott, 21, was in the provisional squad of 30 and started both of England's recent friendly victories against Mexico and Japan.

But Chelsea's Joe Cole has been included in the final squad, which flies to South Africa on Wednesday.

Manchester City winger Shaun Wright-Phillips also keeps his place, report the Premier League club.

Gareth Barry had a fitness test on his injured ankle on Tuesday morning, with initial reports sounding favourable.