Arsenal youngster Jack Wilshere has played down his chances of making England's World Cup squad.
After Gunners team-mate Theo Walcott's surprise call-up for the tournament in Germany in 2006, Wilshere, who turns 18 on New Year's Day, has been tipped by many as the dark horse for the 2010 tournament in South Africa.
"I'd rather there wasn't the hype. (England talk) is nice to hear but it's difficult, too. I mean, I can look forward to things but I'm not stupid," he told the Sunday Times.
England coach Fabio Capello is known to be an admirer of the midfielder, who has impressed on his outings for Arsenal this season.
Wilshere, though, insists he must secure a regular place with the Gunners before he is challenging England's established names. He added: "You've got to play for your club first and I'm looking to play regularly for Arsenal before anything else."
Regarding the World Cup, he said: "Realistically, no, it's not going to happen. There's players ahead of me. I wouldn't be heartbroken if I didn't go."
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