Walcott travels with England U21s

1:48pm Sunday 18th November 2007

Theo Walcott and Gabriel Agbonlahor have travelled with the England Under-21 squad to Portugal ahead of their Euro 2009 qualifier in Agueda on Tuesday.

Injuries to Wayne Rooney, Michael Owen and Emile Heskey has left senior boss Steve McClaren short on attacking options for the crucial clash against Croatia the following day, with ex-Saints star Walcott and Agbonlahor currently focusing on the under-21s.

Tottenham striker Darren Bent, who played for the under-21s two qualifying campaigns ago, is another option for McClaren after Israel's win against Russia put England back in control as they look to reach Austria and Switzerland next summer.

Qualifying for Stuart Pearce's youngsters has not been as traumatic as it has for the seniors, and they protect a 100% record in Portugal.

A point in Agueda will see them reach the play-offs for their finals in Sweden.

Agbonlahor, who has played in every qualifier this season like Walcott, suffered a slight knee injury against Bulgaria on Friday but Pearce is still hopeful the Aston Villa striker will play against Portugal.

Saints midfielder Andrew Surman was an unused sub against Bulgaria.