Walcott starts for England's World Cup qualifier

Arsenal winger Theo Walcott made his return to the England team for the World Cup qualifier against Kazakhstan after dislocating his shoulder and missing four international games.

Rio Ferdinand’s calf injury meant Matthew Upson partnered John Terry at centre-back, while goalkeeper Robert Green was handed his first start for the Group Six clash.

Emile Heskey, who missed the victory over Ukraine in April, replaced Peter Crouch in attack as England looked to protect their 100% record in qualifying for the 2010 World Cup.

Fabio Capello’s men were fighting the effects of jetlag after their 3,500-mile trip east to a country that borders China.

England team to play Kazakhstan:

Green, Johnson, Terry, Upson, A Cole, Walcott, Barry, Lampard, Gerrard, Rooney, Heskey.

Subs: Robinson, Lescott, Bridge, Defoe, Wright-Phillips, Beckham, Crouch.