England U21 boss Stuart Pearce has called up Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere to his squad for the first time.

The 17-year-old has been promoted from the Under-20s by Pearce following an injury to Bolton midfielder Fabrice Muamba.

Wilshere has been tipped to have a chance of making the senior squad for the World Cup next year, with boss Fabio Capello looking to monitor his progress this season.

After starring for his club in the pre-season Emirates Cup, Wilshere was expected to be named in Pearce's squad but instead prepared for the Under-20s clash against Montenegro at West Brom.