England manager Steve McClaren announced the England squad selection today for the upcoming games against Brazil and Estonia. The Brazil game will be the first international to be played in the new Wembley stadium.

Over the past week there has been a lot of discussion as to whether former England captain David Beckham would be recalled to the side. David Beckham lost his place and captaincy when McClaren became manager following England’s quarter final exit in World Cup 2006. He has not played for the national side since that defeat against Portugal last summer. Many supporters were glad that the former hero was ditched as McClaren looked to beckon in a new era. It was felt that Beckham was past his best and that youngsters should be given a chance under McClaren’s stewardship. Players like Lennon and Dowing have since played roles in the first team.

Since Beckham’s exit he has also struggled for Real Madrid but has recently forced his way back into the first team with spectacular form. Meanwhile England have been in the doldrums since his departure. Ever since David Beckham has been dropped England have struggled for goals and struggled to win matches that they should have comfortably commanded. While England’s struggle is not solely down to the exit of the former captain; Beckham will use the 2 upcoming matches to win back the hearts of the nation. Beckham now aged 32 will face Brazil at Wembley next Friday before a qualifier against Estonia early next month. McClaren played down reports that senior members of his squad did not want Beckham recalled.

McClaren also refused to comment on Beckham’s move to Major League Soccer in the summer and whether it would hinder his international prospects in the long term. Beckham is set to move to LA Galaxy at the end of the Spanish season and is confident he can become a fixture in England’s plans again.