Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is convinced a consistent Kieran Gibbs can force his way into England's World Cup squad. England coach Fabio Capello admits the 20-year-old left-back is in his thoughts as the Italian contemplates just who to take on the plane to South Africa next summer.
"It is a big season for Kieran. I believe he has the quality to be the England left-back, and have said that for a long time," said the Frenchman.
"He is still very young. He has a lack of experience, but has the quality.
"For him now, it is to consistently play. He will play games with Arsenal this year and will play tomorrow."
Wenger feels Gibbs, who had a loan spell at Norwich during 2007-08, can use the situation to help his development.
"When you make the choice to live in a competitive world you have to accept competition," he said.
"To accept competition is to push somebody who is in front of you out and to show you are better.
"You cannot complain about that.
"Everybody is free to come into our world or stay out of it. Once you are in there, you have to accept competition."
