Beckham recalled by McClaren

Steve McClaren has recalled David Beckham to the England squad claiming that the former captain has an important part to play in the short term.

McClaren needs to win the Euro 2008 qualifier against Estonia on June 6th and he sees the rejuvenated Real Madrid player as part of those plans, despite dumping him when he took over as England coach after the World Cup last summer.

McClaren, who included Beckham in a 26-man squad for the friendly against Brazil at Wembley next Friday and the Estonia game, told Sky Sports News: "We've got a very big game in Estonia coming up that we have to win and I'vegot to pick a squad capable of doing that. That's why I've picked David."

Asked if Beckham, who joins Los Angeles Galaxy in the summer, had a long-term future with England despite his imminent move to the United States, McClaren replied: "That's for the future. You have to plan for the long term but we have to win in the short term."

"He was absolutely delighted as I knew he would be," added McClaren. "He has been a real professional throughout. He's coming into form and deserved to be in."

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 Rovers 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 in which Owen also played.

Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole, who has only recently returned to action after an injury-hit season, rejoins the squad after a long period away from the international scene.