Theo's inspired by Henry

England’s Leverkusen super-sub Theo Walcott was modest in appraising his performance against Germany after he scored a brace inside the final six minutes to book a place at the UEFA European Under-21s Championship in Holland next year.

Walcott notched up his third and fourth goals for Peter Taylor’s side on his fourth cap with two well-taken strikes, seeing off Germany in front of their own crowd.

But the 17-year-old had more praise for his team mates’ defending as they kept the Germans at bay for 180 minutes to close out the tie 3-0.

"It was hard work for the players, we defended really well and got the clean sheet that we needed," he said.

"It's an honour for me just to be in the Under-21s squad at the moment. All the time, whether I come off the bench or if I start, I want to make an impact."

He added: "Holland will be brilliant. Germany was a great experience for me and I’m really looking forward to this tournament a lot."

Both of Walcott’s goals, which saw him out-pace the German defence before finishing in style past the highly impressive goalkeeper Michael Rensing, will no doubt draw comparisons with his Arsenal team-mate Thierry Henry.

"I train with him every day, Robin’s [Van Persie] the same, too, their finishing is unbelievable. But it’s great to be able to learn from the best," said Walcott.

"He’s brilliant to train with, he’s a top man. I just enjoy watching him train."

England Coach Taylor believes there is more to come from Walcott, who he left out of the starting line-up. And after bringing him into the fray in Germany, Taylor was pleased with the way he responded.

"We're very fortunate to have good wide players with pace. We knew he wouldn't start both games but we saw when he came on how quick he is and what a talent he is as a player," he said.

"He's learning all the time."