David Beckham has tried to ease Theo Walcott's World Cup heartbreak.

The former England captain sent the Arsenal star a text urging him to keep his chin up and assuring him he can come back stronger in the future.

Walcott, 21, was axed from Fabio Capello's World Cup squad, but the Arsenal winger is close to 35-year-old Beckham, who has flown out with the England squad to South Africa.

Disappointed Walcott has vowed to bounce back, while Beckham has been invited to be part of Capello's set-up for the World Cup, despite being ruled out because of his Achilles injury.

Walcott recently credited Beckham as being a big influence on his career and they are likely to be in contact again shortly.

Walcott said recently: "David has been fantastic for me especially, but also for so many players. He gets the best out of people.

"The most important thing he has ever told me is to just enjoy football and play with no fear."