eplmatches.com

Theo Walcott hit a stunning hat-trick as England thrashed Croatia in a World Cup qualifying tie in Zagreb.

Walcott, 19, got the nod to start ahead of David Beckham and he drilled England into the lead, before Robert Kovac was sent off for an elbow on Joe Cole.

Walcott doubled the advantage by driving home and the exceptional Wayne Rooney slotted in a brilliant third.

Mario Mandzukic grabbed a consolation for Croatia, before Walcott collected Rooney’s pass and rolled in his third.

It was a magnificent performance and more than coach Fabio Capello can have dreamed for, a result which puts England firmly in control of Group Six after two wins in four days.

Walcott

Walcott

Rooney

Mandzukic

Walcott