Beckham tipped for England axe
Beckham in pain after coming off in Portugal loss
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Friday, 11, Aug 2006 12:41
England coach Steve McClaren could be about to end David Beckham's international career, reports suggest today.
McClaren is set to name his first squad since succeeding Sven-Goran Eriksson at a press conference at 15:00 BST today.
Former skipper Beckham is not thought to be on the team sheet, however, as the new coach looks to establish a new era under the captaincy of John Terry.
The likes of Aaron Lennon and before him Shaun Wright-Phillips have both been mooted as long-term replacements for Beckham and McClaren could be set to make the bold step to leave him out now with South Africa 2010 firmly in mind.
Beckham, 31, resigned from his captain's role after England's World Cup quarter-final exit at the hands of Portugal but said he was keen to add to his 94 caps.
He has been struggling with an Achilles injury since then but has returned to action for Real Madrid recently.
McClaren's first match in charge of England will be the friendly against European champions Greece at Old Trafford on August 16th.