Beckham recalled to England squad

Former captain David Beck-ham was recalled to England's squad for this week's friendly with Brazil and the Euro 2008 qualifier in Estonia on June 6. It is the first time the Real Madrid midfielder has been included in the squad since coach Steve...

Former captain David Beck-ham was recalled to England's squad for this week's friendly with Brazil and the Euro 2008 qualifier in Estonia on June 6.

It is the first time the Real Madrid midfielder has been included in the squad since coach Steve McClaren took over from Sven-Goran Eriksson after last year's World Cup.

"I believe David Beckham will help us win in Estonia and that's why I picked him," McClaren said. "He was absolutely delighted as I knew he would be."

McClaren named a 26-man squad which also includes striker Michael Owen for the first time since he sustained a serious knee injury on England duty in the World Cup in Germany.

Blackburn midfielder David Bentley and Reading defender Nicky Shorey have also been named for the first time after impressive displays in Friday's 3-1 victory in a B international against Albania.

England play Brazil next Friday in their first international at the new Wembley before visiting Estonia for their key Group E qualifying match in June.

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